World Food Programme
Why it Matters?
India and the World Food Programme (WFP) signed a Letter of Intent to supply fortified rice globally, supporting vulnerable populations amid food insecurity. This collaboration highlights India’s surplus agriculture role, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam ethos, and strengthens humanitarian partnerships.
What You Should Know?
The World Food Programme (WFP) was established in 1961 by the UN General Assembly and FAO.
Its headquarters is located in Rome, Italy.
It is the world’s largest humanitarian agency working to combat hunger and food insecurity.
WFP operates in over 120 countries and territories, reaching nearly 150 million people in 2023.
Its mandate includes emergency food assistance, nutrition support, school meals, and building resilience in communities.
The programme is funded entirely through voluntary contributions from governments, corporations, and individuals.
WFP has been working with India since 1968 on projects like fortified rice, PDS reforms, Annapurti grain ATMs, and smart warehousing.
It was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for efforts to fight hunger and contribute to peace in conflict zones.