FCI Signs Five-Year Rice Supply Agreement with World Food Programme

India–WFP Rice Supply Agreement (Feb 2026)

Key Highlights

· MoU signed on 18 Feb 2026 between Food Corporation of India (FCI) and World Food Programme (WFP).

· Agreement covers 200,000 metric tonnes of rice (up to 25% broken) for humanitarian operations.

· Valid for five years, extendable by mutual consent.

Terms of Agreement

· Price fixed at INR 2,800 per quintal until 31 March 2026.

· Price to be mutually agreed annually thereafter.

· Signed by Rabindra Kumar Agarwal (CMD, FCI) and Carl Skau (Deputy Executive Director, WFP).

Government of India’s Position

· Secretary Sanjeev Chopra: partnership is about “exporting hope, nutrition, and dignity”.

· Reinforces India’s resolve to fight malnutrition and hunger globally.

• Positions India as a trusted contributor to global food systems.

WFP’s Position

· Carl Skau: agreement is a “key milestone in fighting global hunger”.

· India’s support strengthens WFP’s ability to reach vulnerable populations.

· India seen as a major agricultural nation and global solidarity partner.

Strategic Significance

· Reinforces India’s role in global food security.

· Strengthens cooperation with WFP in humanitarian operations.

· Enhances India’s image as a responsible global actor in food systems.

[ABS News Service/19.02.2026]

The Food Corporation of India (FCI) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the 18^th of February, 2026 for the supply of rice in support of global humanitarian operations aimed at combating hunger.

The MoU was signed by Rabindra Kumar Agarwal, CMD, FCI for Government of India and Carl Skau - Deputy Executive Director, WFP in presence of Secretary, Department of Food and Public Distribution. Under the MoU, FCI will supply200,000 metric tonnes of rice (up to 25% broken) to WFP. The MoU will be valid for a period of five years from the date of signing and may be extended by mutual consent. The price will be mutually agreed on an annual basis, with the current price fixed at INR 2,800 per quintal up to 31 March 2026 .

Mr Sanjeev Chopra, Secretary, Department of Food and Public Distribution, said: “Through our partnership with WFP, we are exporting hope, nutrition, and dignity to those facing hunger. This agreement showcases India's resolve to ensure no one goes hungry. India will continue to stand with the international community in combating malnutrition and food insecurity.”

Mr Carl Skau, Deputy Executive Director, UN World Food Programme, said: “This agreement with India marks a key milestone in fighting global hunger. India's support will help WFP reach vulnerable populations with nutritious food more effectively over the next five years. As a major agricultural nation and a proponent of global solidarity, India inspires us to turn the Zero Hunger goal into action. I thank India for this transformative partnership.”

This partnership reinforces India’s commitment to global food security, strengthens cooperation with WFP in addressing humanitarian needs worldwide and reinforces India’s role as a trusted and responsible contributor to global food systems.