India’s Double-Fortified Salt Plan Against Anaemia Sparks Debate

India has been working for several years to reduce anaemia by providing iron tablets and fortified foods to people who are most at risk. However, despite these efforts, millions of women and children continue to suffer from anaemia.

In February 2026, the government paused its programme to add nutrients to rice through fortification. Following this decision, researchers suggested expanding the use of double-fortified salt (DFS), which contains both iron and iodine. The proposal has started a new debate among health experts.

Supporters believe double-fortified salt could be an affordable and effective way to reduce anaemia. Since salt is regularly used in cooking, they say it could help people receive important nutrients without making major changes to their daily habits. They also believe the approach could reach a large number of people at a relatively low cost.

However, some experts have raised concerns about whether this method would be enough to address anaemia. They argue that the body may absorb iron from certain foods and supplements more effectively than iron added to salt.

Other experts point out that anaemia can have several causes, including poor nutrition and infections. They warn that depending only on fortified salt may not address these underlying problems.

The discussion continues as researchers and health experts examine whether double-fortified salt can play a useful role in reducing anaemia in India. They are weighing its possible benefits against concerns about its effectiveness and limitations.