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Context:

Urgent need to transform Indian food systems to be nutrition-sensitive, sustainable, and equitable for national well-being.

Background

India faces a “triple burden” of malnutrition: undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and obesity.

According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) data:

• 194 million people are undernourished, 35.5% of children under five are stunted, 32.1% are underweight, and 19.3% suffer from wasting (low weight for height).
• 57% of women of reproductive age are anemic, signaling “hidden hunger” (lack of micronutrients like iron, zinc, or vitamin A).  
• 24% of women and 22.9% of men are overweight, increasing risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and heart disease.

Although India produces enough food, many cannot access or afford nutritious diets. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that 55.6% of Indians couldn’t afford a healthy diet in 2022, with costs rising from $2.86 to $3.36 per day (in purchasing power parity terms).

Poverty, unequal food distribution, and a focus on calorie-heavy crops like rice and wheat (instead of nutrient-rich foods like pulses or millets) worsen the problem. Climate change threatens crop yields, biodiversity, and small farmers’ livelihoods, deepening food insecurity.

Need urgent reform

Malnutrition doesn’t just harm health—it weakens the Indian economy and future. Stunted children struggle in school and earn less as adults, trapping families in poverty.

Obesity and NCDs raise healthcare costs, straining public resources. The Global Hunger Index 2024 ranks India 105th with a score of 27.3, placing it in the “serious” hunger category.

Globally, food system failures cost $12 trillion annually due to health issues, environmental damage, and lost productivity. For India, with a growing population and climate vulnerabilities like droughts and floods, continuing with outdated systems is unsustainable.

By transforming food systems to prioritize nutrition, sustainability, and equity, India can improve overall well-being and meet SDGs like Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Good Health (SDG 3), and Responsible Consumption (SDG 12).  

Strategies for Transformation

Nutrition-Sensitive Agriculture

Farmers must grow diverse, climate-resilient crops like millets, pulses, and biofortified varieties (e.g., iron-rich rice or vitamin A-enriched sweet potatoes). These crops improve diets and withstand climate challenges like droughts. 

Policies should also reduce post-harvest losses (e.g., better storage) to ensure food quality.

Strengthening Social Safety Nets

The Public Distribution System (PDS) and mid-day meal schemes focus more on cereals like rice and wheat, neglecting nutrient-rich foods. Expanding PDS to include pulses, millets, and fortified foods can improve diets.

Private Sector Role

Companies should innovate by producing nutrient-dense foods, fortifying staples (e.g., adding iron to rice), and using plant-based alternatives. 

Clear nutrition labels and QR codes on packages can educate consumers. Regulations and incentives can push businesses to prioritize health over profit.

Climate and Economic Resilience

Climate-smart agriculture, such as drip irrigation or drought-resistant crops, protects farmers from climate shocks.

Creating rural jobs and supporting women farmers (who make up 79% of rural agricultural workers but own only 13% of land) ensures economic stability. Gender-sensitive policies can empower women, improving family nutrition.

Awareness Campaigns

Tools like the “MyPlate Blast Off” game or radio programs teach healthy eating, especially in areas with low internet access. Nutrition education in schools can shape lifelong habits. 

Must Read Articles: 

Right to Free Food: Reform Needed

Food Processing Industry Reforms in India

State of Food and Agriculture 2024 

The World Food Programme (WEP)

Source: 

THE HINDU