India has formalised a major humanitarian partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP) by signing a Letter of Intent to supply fortified rice for global food aid. The initiative, led by the Department of Food and Public Distribution, positions India as a key contributor to international efforts addressing hunger and malnutrition in crisis-affected regions.
The agreement enables WFP to source fortified rice from India, leveraging the country’s agricultural surplus to support vulnerable populations worldwide. The move reflects India’s commitment to the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, embracing a shared global responsibility for food security.
Sanjeev Chopra, Secretary of the Department, underscored India’s resolve to assist nations facing food insecurity, framing the initiative as part of a broader humanitarian ethos. Carl Skau, Deputy Executive Director of WFP, expressed deep appreciation for India’s consistent support, especially amid rising global food insecurity and constrained humanitarian funding.
The collaboration builds on discussions held during the February 2025 Executive Board side event in Rome, where Indian and WFP representatives explored avenues for cooperation. The signed LoI lays the foundation for a reliable supply of food grains for humanitarian distribution.
Ongoing joint efforts between India and WFP include supply chain optimisation, fortified rice rollout, Annapurti grain ATMs, Jan Poshan Kendras, smart warehousing technologies, and mobile storage units known as Flospans. These initiatives were reviewed alongside future areas of engagement.
The signing ceremony was attended by Ashutosh Agnihotri, Chairman and Managing Director of the Food Corporation of India; Samir Wanmali, Regional Director of WFP APARO; Elisabeth Faure, Country Director of WFP India; and senior officials from the Department of Food and Public Distribution.
