Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Food security, a cornerstone of societal well-being, has gained renewed importance in the face of global uncertainties like climate change and geopolitical tensions. The concept gained prominence after the 1996 World Food Summit, where it was defined. India, a nation with a large population and a history of famines, has prioritized food security as a fundamental right. The National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, exemplifies this commitment. However, ensuring food security extends beyond mere availability; it encompasses accessibility, affordability, and nutritional adequacy. This answer will delve into the definition, importance, and the current food security system in India, examining its efficacy and future challenges.
What is Food Security?
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. The four pillars of food security, as defined by the FAO, are:
- Availability: Sufficient quantities of food are produced or imported.
- Accessibility: Food is affordable and geographically accessible.
- Utilization: Proper food processing, storage, and preparation techniques are employed, along with adequate health and sanitation.
- Stability: Access to food does not fluctuate significantly due to natural disasters, economic crises, or political instability.
Why is Food Security Essential?
Food security is not merely about preventing hunger; it's a crucial prerequisite for overall development. Its importance stems from:
- Human Development: Malnutrition, particularly in children, leads to impaired cognitive development, reduced productivity, and increased vulnerability to diseases.
- Economic Growth: A healthy and well-nourished population contributes significantly to economic productivity and national income.
- Social Stability: Food shortages and price volatility can trigger social unrest and political instability.
- National Security: Dependence on food imports can compromise a nation’s strategic autonomy.
The Current Food Security System in India
India’s food security system is a complex interplay of various programs and institutions. The core of the system revolves around the Public Distribution System (PDS), but it's complemented by other initiatives.
The Public Distribution System (PDS)
The PDS is a government-run system that distributes food grains and other essential commodities at subsidized rates to vulnerable sections of the population. It has evolved significantly over the years:
- Pre-Independence Era: Early forms of food distribution existed during British rule, primarily to address famine situations.
- Post-Independence: The PDS was formally introduced in 1964, initially targeting urban areas.
- Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS): Introduced in 1997-98, shifting from universal coverage to targeting Below Poverty Line (BPL) families.
- National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013: This Act provides legal entitlement to food security for up to 75% of the rural population and 50% of the urban population. It mandates the distribution of food grains at prices not exceeding ₹3/kg for rice, ₹2/kg for wheat, and ₹1/kg for coarse grains.
- Aadhaar Integration: Efforts are underway to link PDS with Aadhaar for better targeting and reducing leakages.
- Digitization & Reforms: Initiatives like the Fair Price Shop (FPS) automation and portability of ration cards are being implemented.
Other Relevant Schemes
- Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): Provides supplementary nutrition, health, and sanitation services to children below six years and pregnant/lactating mothers.
- Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDM): Provides cooked lunch to children in government and government-aided schools.
- Annapurna Scheme: Provides 35 kg of food grains per family below the poverty line who are not covered under NFSA.
- Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PM-GKAY): A COVID-19 relief scheme providing free food grains to vulnerable families.
Challenges in the Indian Food Security System
| Challenge | Description |
|---|---|
| Leakages & Diversion | Significant quantities of food grains are lost due to corruption, inefficiency, and diversion to the black market. |
| Storage & Wastage | Inadequate storage infrastructure leads to post-harvest losses and spoilage of food grains. |
| Price Volatility | Fluctuations in food prices impact affordability, particularly for low-income households. |
| Nutritional Imbalance | The focus primarily on cereals neglects the need for a more diverse and nutritious diet. |
| Climate Change | Erratic rainfall patterns and extreme weather events threaten agricultural production. |
Future Directions
- Strengthening procurement and storage infrastructure.
- Promoting diversification of crops and livestock.
- Improving nutritional awareness and dietary habits.
- Leveraging technology for better targeting and monitoring.
- Addressing climate change impacts through sustainable agricultural practices.
Conclusion
Ensuring food security in India remains a complex and ongoing challenge. While the PDS and other schemes have made significant strides in alleviating hunger, persistent issues like leakages, wastage, and nutritional imbalances require urgent attention. A holistic approach that integrates technological advancements, promotes sustainable agriculture, and prioritizes nutritional diversity is crucial to achieving the goal of food security for all Indians. The NFSA provides a legal framework, but its effective implementation and continuous adaptation to evolving challenges are paramount for a truly food-secure India.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.