The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved reforms to enhance the quality of rice under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY). For nearly 30 years, the quality specifications of rice in the Public Distribution System have been revised.
Raw rice will now have up to 10% broken grains, down from a previous allowance of 25%. Parboiled rice will contain a maximum of 5% broken grains instead of 16%. This aims to ensure beneficiaries receive rice with lower broken grain content while maintaining their entitlements.
The improved rice supply will begin immediately, with full rollout expected by the Kharif Marketing Season 2027-28. Beneficiaries will see better grain integrity and appearance.
The reform will also see productive uses for broken rice, which will be utilized for industrial purposes or sold, generating revenue and reducing logistical costs.
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