FCI Signs Rice Supply MoU With World Food Programme
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
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BEFORE: India provided food aid primarily through ad-hoc, bilateral donations during specific geopolitical crises. NOW: India has a structured, five-year institutional mechanism with the UN WFP for regular humanitarian supply.
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BEFORE: FCI managed its surplus grain stocks primarily through the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) for domestic bulk buyers. NOW: FCI has secured an international institutional buyer for 200,000 MT of rice annually, aiding buffer stock management.
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BEFORE: Prices for international humanitarian supplies were often negotiated per shipment or provided as free grants. NOW: The MoU establishes a pre-determined annual pricing mechanism, starting at Rs 2,800 per quintal.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
Correct Statement(s)Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the MoU signed between FCI and the UN World Food Programme (WFP)? 1. Under the agreement, FCI will supply 200,000 metric tonnes of wheat annually to the WFP for a period of ten years. 2. The initial supply price has been fixed at Rs 2,800 per quintal until March 2026.