Food security remains a critical global challenge, and achieving the goals of "Zero Hunger" and "No Poverty" is vital to addressing this issue. In India, food security is a pressing issue, with significant challenges tied to both poverty and hunger. As one of the most populous countries in the world, India faces the dual challenge of feeding its vast population while addressing economic disparities that hinder access to nutritious food.

Hunger and Malnutrition in India:

As of recent reports, around 190 million people in India remain undernourished, which is about 15% of the country's population. Despite India being one of the largest food producers globally, the distribution of food remains highly unequal. According to the Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2023, India ranks 107th out of 121 countries, indicating a serious hunger problem. The country also grapples with high levels of malnutrition, with 38% of children under the age of five being stunted (low height for age) and 21% wasted (low weight for height), according to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS).

Poverty and Access to Food:

Poverty is a significant barrier to food security in India. As of 2022, the World Bank estimates that around 22% of the Indian population lives below the poverty line, which amounts to over 270 million people. Many of these individuals face difficulty in affording sufficient and nutritious food. Even though India has large-scale food assistance programs like the Public Distribution System (PDS), there are concerns about inefficiency and leakage, with many eligible individuals still unable to access the resources they need.

Impact of Agriculture:

India's agricultural sector employs over 50% of the workforce, but a large proportion of farmers are smallholders who struggle with limited access to modern technologies, credit, and markets. According to the FAO, nearly 83% of farmers in India are small-scale producers who face the brunt of climate change impacts, such as erratic rainfall and droughts. This leads to fluctuating crop yields, making food access even more precarious for many in rural areas.

Government Initiatives:

India has implemented several policies to tackle hunger and poverty, including the National Food Security Act (NFSA), which aims to provide subsidized food grains to over 80 crore (800 million) people. The government also runs various welfare schemes, such as the Midday Meal Scheme and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), aimed at addressing child malnutrition.

However, despite these efforts, the challenge remains vast. In addition to improving food distribution and accessibility, India must focus on promoting sustainable agriculture, increasing employment opportunities, and improving the quality of nutrition for its most vulnerable populations to achieve Zero Hunger and No Poverty.

Conclusion:

In India, food insecurity is driven by a combination of hunger, poverty, and unequal access to resources. While the government has made strides toward addressing these issues, much work remains to be done. To achieve the goals of Zero Hunger and No Poverty, India must ensure that all citizens—especially the poor and marginalized—have access to nutritious food and the economic opportunities needed to break the cycle of poverty.