Kathmandu – In a major step towards addressing food security challenges, India, supported by the UN World Food Programme (WFP), launched a groundbreaking project aimed at strengthening rice fortification and supply chain management in Nepal. Announced in New Delhi by India’s Ministry of External Affairs on August 1, 2025, this initiative is part of the broader India-UN Global Capacity Building Initiative, focusing on knowledge transfer, technology sharing, and sustainable solutions through South-South cooperation.

Nepal’s food supply system has struggled with inefficiencies in procurement, inadequate data management, and shortages of skilled personnel, particularly in managing fortified rice distribution. Through this project, Nepali officials and stakeholders will gain direct insights from India's successful Public Distribution System (PDS), renowned for its effectiveness in distributing nutritious food grains to millions. Digital innovations for beneficiary tracking, efficient storage and distribution logistics, robust monitoring and evaluation, and grievance resolution mechanisms form key aspects of this transformative collaboration.

The 12-month project will unfold in three carefully structured phases. Initially, it will conduct detailed needs assessments and stakeholder consultations in Nepal. Following this, Nepali officials will participate in practical demonstrations and expert-led training sessions during a comprehensive study tour in India, facilitated under India’s prestigious Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme. Since 2001, over 3,000 Nepali government officials have already benefited from training through ITEC, highlighting its longstanding impact. The project will culminate in a strategic action plan tailored specifically to Nepal’s food security requirements.

Initiated on the sidelines of the 78th United Nations General Assembly in September 2023, the India-UN Global Capacity Building Initiative identifies impactful projects aimed at accelerating progress towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) via South-South cooperation. The rice fortification and supply chain project is one among four critical programs selected for immediate implementation.

This latest initiative not only showcases the strengthening of India-Nepal bilateral ties but also offers hope to thousands of Nepali families grappling with nutritional insecurity. As optimism grows, the success of this collaboration ultimately hinges upon institutional commitment, consistent follow-through, and Nepal’s capacity to implement long-term change. Whether this promising start translates into lasting solutions remains a critical question for the future.