India, home to one of the largest populations affected by malnutrition, has recognized the potential of biofortification to address its nutritional challenges. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has been actively involved in developing biofortified varieties of staple crops such as wheat, rice, and millets.
One notable success story is the development of iron-rich pearl millet and zinc-enriched wheat, which have been widely adopted by farmers in several states. The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) has also played a pivotal role in evaluating the efficacy of biofortified crops in improving dietary intake and health outcomes.
The Indian government has integrated biofortification into its national nutrition programs, such as the Poshan Abhiyan (National Nutrition Mission), which aims to reduce malnutrition through a multi-sectoral approach. Public-private partnerships, such as those between ICAR and the HarvestPlus program, have further strengthened India’s biofortification efforts.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Limited awareness among farmers and consumers, inadequate distribution systems, and regulatory bottlenecks hinder the widespread adoption of biofortified crops. Addressing these challenges requires a coordinated effort involving government agencies, research institutions, and the private sector.
India’s rich agricultural biodiversity also offers unique opportunities for biofortification. Indigenous crops such as finger millet, sorghum, and amaranth have high nutritional potential and can be further enhanced through biofortification. Leveraging these crops can not only improve nutrition but also promote sustainable farming practices and preserve traditional knowledge.