Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Food and nutrition security (FNS), as defined by the Committee on World Food Security, exists when all people at all times have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life. India, with its vast population and diverse socio-economic conditions, faces unique challenges in achieving this goal. The National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, represents a significant step towards ensuring food security, but nutritional outcomes remain a concern, highlighting the complex interplay of factors beyond mere food availability. The recent Global Hunger Index (GHI) report underscores the need for continued and intensified efforts.
Understanding Food and Nutrition Security in India: A Multi-Dimensional Perspective
1. Food Availability & Production
India has made significant strides in food production since the Green Revolution. Current grain production averages around 330 million tonnes annually, exceeding the minimum requirement of the Public Distribution System (PDS). However, regional disparities exist. For example, states in eastern India often face lower yields compared to those in the south.
- Foodgrains Production (2022-23): Approximately 330.95 million tonnes (Source: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare)
- Major Crops: Rice, wheat, pulses, oilseeds, and sugarcane are key contributors.
2. Accessibility & Affordability: The Role of the PDS
The NFSA, 2013, guarantees subsidized food grains to around 800 million beneficiaries, approximately 67% of the rural population and 50% of the urban population. The Act entitles eligible households to 5 kg of food grains per person per month.
- NFSA Coverage: Approximately 81.32 crore beneficiaries (Source: Department of Food and Public Distribution, 2023)
- Issue Prices: Rice at ₹3/kg, wheat at ₹2/kg, and coarse grains at ₹1/kg.
Despite the PDS, accessibility remains a challenge in remote areas and for marginalized communities. Inflation and supply chain disruptions often impact affordability.
3. Nutritional Status: Beyond Food Security
While food security addresses the availability of food, nutrition security focuses on the nutritional quality of that food and its utilization by the body. India faces a “nutrition paradox” - despite sufficient food production, malnutrition persists in various forms.
- Stunting (Under-5): 35.2% (NFHS-5, 2021-22) – indicating chronic malnutrition.
- Wasting (Under-5): 7.7% (NFHS-5, 2021-22) – indicating acute malnutrition.
- Underweight (Under-5): 29.3% (NFHS-5, 2021-22) – reflecting overall malnutrition.
- Micronutrient Deficiencies: High prevalence of iron, iodine, and vitamin A deficiencies.
4. Challenges to Food and Nutrition Security
Several factors contribute to the ongoing challenges:
- Climate Change: Erratic rainfall, droughts, and floods impact agricultural productivity.
- Post-Harvest Losses: Significant food losses occur due to inadequate storage and transportation infrastructure.
- Dietary Diversity: Dependence on staple grains limits dietary diversity and micronutrient intake.
- Gender Inequality: Women and girls often face disproportionate nutritional disadvantages.
- Poverty and Inequality: Limited purchasing power restricts access to nutritious food.
5. Government Initiatives and Programs
The Indian government has implemented various schemes to address food and nutrition security:
- Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): Provides supplementary nutrition, healthcare, and immunization to children under six years and pregnant/lactating mothers.
- Mission Poshan 2.0: Focuses on improving nutritional outcomes for children, adolescents, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.
- Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PM-GKAY): Provides free food grains to vulnerable families during crises.
- Fortification of Food: Mandating fortification of staple foods like rice, wheat, and edible oil with essential micronutrients.
6. Case Study: Poshan Abhiyaan (National Nutrition Mission)
Title: Poshan Abhiyaan
Description: Launched in 2018, Poshan Abhiyaan aims to improve nutritional outcomes through a convergent approach, integrating various nutrition programs and leveraging technology for monitoring and evaluation.
Outcome: While early results were mixed, the program has raised awareness about nutrition and fostered convergence among different government departments. The focus on community-based nutrition interventions shows promise.
| Indicator | NFHS-4 (2014) | NFHS-5 (2021-22) |
|---|---|---|
| Stunting (Under-5) | 42.2% | 35.2% |
| Wasting (Under-5) | 10.7% | 7.7% |
| Underweight (Under-5) | 38.7% | 29.3% |
Conclusion
India has made significant progress in food production and ensuring access to subsidized food grains. However, the persistent nutritional challenges, reflected in high rates of stunting and wasting, necessitate a shift from merely ensuring food availability to focusing on nutrition security. A multi-pronged approach involving diversified diets, improved agricultural practices, strengthened PDS, and targeted nutrition programs is crucial. Addressing climate change impacts and empowering women will be vital for achieving sustainable food and nutrition security for all Indians.
Answer Length
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