Polished Rice No More in Market: A Landmark Decision by Food Minister Sadhan Chandra Majumder

In a groundbreaking move aimed at preserving the nutritional quality of rice, Food Minister Sadhan Chandra Majumder announced a new law banning the marketing of polished rice. This significant decision was revealed during his speech as the chief guest at a meeting held at the Porsha Upazila Parishad auditorium in Naogaon on Monday afternoon. The meeting was part of the inauguration of an agricultural technology fair and also included the distribution of dheutin and scholarship checks to students from minority ethnic groups.

The Impact of Polished Rice

Polished rice, known for its glossy appearance and smooth texture, undergoes extensive milling and polishing processes that strip away the bran and germ layers, resulting in a product with a longer shelf life but significantly reduced nutritional value. These layers contain essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which are crucial for a balanced diet. The overconsumption of polished rice has been linked to various health issues, including malnutrition, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Minister Majumder emphasized that the decision to ban polished rice is rooted in the need to promote healthier eating habits among the population. By eliminating polished rice from the market, the government aims to encourage the consumption of more nutritious whole grains, thereby improving public health outcomes.

A Landmark Decision

The announcement was met with mixed reactions from different sectors of society. Health experts and nutritionists have lauded the move, highlighting its potential to significantly reduce the incidence of diet-related diseases. Dr. Ruma Sultana, a renowned nutritionist, stated, "This is a positive step towards ensuring that the population has access to healthier food options. Polished rice lacks essential nutrients, and its consumption has been a contributing factor to the rise in non-communicable diseases."

On the other hand, rice millers and traders have expressed concerns over the economic implications of the ban. Many small-scale millers depend on the production of polished rice for their livelihoods. The government has assured that measures will be put in place to support these stakeholders during the transition period. Training programs and incentives will be provided to encourage the production of minimally processed or unpolished rice varieties, which retain their nutritional value.

Implementation and Enforcement

Minister Majumder outlined the steps that will be taken to ensure the effective implementation of the new law. A task force will be established to oversee the transition, monitor compliance, and address any challenges that arise. The government will also launch awareness campaigns to educate the public about the benefits of consuming unpolished rice and how to incorporate it into their diets.

In addition to these measures, partnerships with non-governmental organizations and community groups will be formed to facilitate outreach efforts, particularly in rural areas where polished rice is a dietary staple. The goal is to create a broad-based movement that supports healthier eating habits and sustainable agricultural practices.

For more updates on this topic and other related news, visit our Bangladesh Hea lth and Nutrition section. Additionally, you can read about sustainable agricultural practices in our Agriculture section.