Hindu Editorial Analysis : 17-October-2024
India stands at a crucial juncture in its agricultural journey. Although the country has achieved food sufficiency, many people still suffer from hunger and malnutrition. As part of the Sustainable Development Goals, India must transform its agri-food system to ensure that healthy diets are available and affordable for all by 2030.
The Paradox of Food Sufficiency and Hunger
India is one of the largest producers of food grains in the world. Despite this achievement, hunger remains a significant issue. The Global Hunger Index 2024 ranks India 105th out of 127 countries, highlighting a serious level of hunger. Key statistics include:
- High levels of malnutrition, stunting, and micronutrient deficiencies, especially in rural areas.
- The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) indicates that although caloric intake has improved, nutritional adequacy is still a concern.
This paradox arises from:
- Inequitable Distribution: Food is not distributed evenly, with many rural areas lacking access to affordable, nutritious food.
- Economic Disparities: Low-income households often cannot afford balanced diets.
- Climate Vulnerability: Climate change negatively impacts agricultural productivity, affecting food availability.
Key Challenges
To address these issues, we must consider several challenges:
- Stunted Growth and Malnutrition: 148 million children are stunted, and 45 million suffer from wasting.
- Hidden Hunger: Micronutrient deficiencies lead to long-term health problems, impacting physical and cognitive development.
Analyzing the Paradox
Economic Access and Affordability
The rising cost of nutritious food makes it difficult for many households, particularly in rural areas, to afford balanced meals. This is a significant barrier to achieving a hunger-free India.
Nutritional Quality and Public Health
Food sufficiency should focus on both quantity and quality. Public health initiatives need to promote the distribution of nutrient-dense foods and educate the population about healthy eating habits.
Policy Interventions and Social Safety Nets
Robust policy interventions are essential to bridge the gap between food sufficiency and hunger. Programs like the Public Distribution System (PDS) and mid-day meal schemes are crucial for providing food security to vulnerable populations. Continuous monitoring and improvement of these programs are necessary for effective outreach.
Strategies for a Hunger-Free India
To tackle these challenges, India must implement several strategies:
- Strengthening Food Distribution Systems: Improve mechanisms to ensure food reaches vulnerable populations.
- Promoting Nutritional Awareness: Educate the public about balanced diets and essential nutrients.
- Enhancing Social Safety Nets: Expand food assistance programs like the National Food Security Act.
- Addressing Climate Change: Implement sustainable agricultural practices to mitigate climate impacts.
- Improving Healthcare Access: Ensure healthcare services are available to address malnutrition.
India’s Ongoing Efforts
India has made impressive strides, transforming from a net importer of food grains to a net exporter. During the pandemic, the government effectively distributed food grains through the PDS, providing emergency assistance to families. However, challenges persist:
- Malnutrition: The Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey 2016-18 shows that over 40 million children suffer from chronic malnutrition, and more than half of women aged 15-49 are anaemic.
- Commitment to Programs: Initiatives like the Integrated Child Development Services and mid-day meal schemes reflect India’s commitment to addressing malnutrition and related challenges.
Why In News
India’s agri-food system must undergo a transformative shift to ensure that healthy diets are available and affordable for all, as highlighted in Sustainable Development Goal 2, which aims to end hunger and promote sustainable agriculture by 2030. This transformation is essential not only for improving public health but also for fostering economic stability and resilience within the community.
MCQs about Transforming India’s Agri-Food System for a Hunger-Free Future
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What is the main paradox highlighted in India’s agricultural sector?
A. India is a net importer of food.
B. India is food sufficient but still faces high levels of hunger and malnutrition.
C. India has abundant water resources for farming.
D. Agricultural productivity is not affected by climate change.
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What does the Global Hunger Index 2024 rank India in terms of hunger?
A. 50th out of 127 countries
B. 80th out of 127 countries
C. 105th out of 127 countries
D. 120th out of 127 countries
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Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a challenge to achieving a hunger-free India?
A. Inequitable distribution of food
B. High levels of urbanization
C. Economic disparities
D. Climate vulnerability
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What strategy is suggested to improve food security in India?
A. Reducing agricultural productivity
B. Strengthening food distribution systems
C. Promoting food imports
D. Limiting access to healthcare
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