Why in News?

  • The Food Corporation of India (FCI) signed a Five-Year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the World Food Programme (WFP) on 18 February 2026.
  • The agreement is for the supply of rice to support global humanitarian operations and fight hunger and malnutrition.
WHO SIGNED THE AGREEMENT? The MoU was signed by:
  • Rabindra Kumar Agarwal, CMD, FCI (on behalf of the Government of India)
  • Carl Skau, Deputy Executive Director, WFP
The signing took place in the presence of the Secretary, Department of Food and Public Distribution.

KEY DETAILS OF THE AGREEMENT

  • FCI will supply 200,000 Metric Tonnes (MT) of Rice
  • Rice quality: Up to 25% broken rice allowed
  • Duration: 5 years (extendable by mutual consent)
  • Price: To be decided annually
  • Current price: ₹2,800 per quintal (valid till 31 March 2026)
PURPOSE OF THE AGREEMENT The rice supplied will be used by WFP for:
  • Humanitarian Operations
  • Supporting Vulnerable Populations
  • Combating Hunger and Malnutrition
The goal is to assist countries facing food shortages, conflicts and disasters.

IMPORTANCE OF THE WORLD FOOD PROGRAM

  • WFP is a United Nations (UN) Agency
  • Works towards achieving SDG-2: Zero Hunger
  • Provides food during wars, natural disasters and poverty crises
India’s partnership strengthens WFP’s ability to deliver nutritious food globally. SIGNIFICANCE FOR INDIA This agreement:
  • Strengthens India’s role in Global Food Security
  • Shows commitment to fighting hunger worldwide
  • Highlights India as a major Agricultural Power
  • Enhances India’s image as a Responsible Global Partner
It reflects India’s policy of Global Solidarity and Cooperation.

BROADER IMPACT

For the Global Community
  • Helps vulnerable populations access nutritious food
  • Supports international humanitarian efforts
  • Contributes to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
For India
  • Strengthens Diplomatic Relations
  • Enhances global leadership in Food Systems
  • Promotes India’s Agricultural Strength
CONCLUSION The Five-Year Rice Supply Agreement between FCI and WFP is a major step in strengthening Global Food Security. By supplying 200,000 MT of rice, India is actively contributing to the fight against Hunger and Malnutrition. This partnership highlights India’s growing role as a trusted and responsible contributor to global humanitarian efforts and supports the vision of a Hunger-Free World.