Zero Hunger, Food Security, and Nutrition: Where Are We and What’s the Way Forward

Abstract

This chapter tries to understand the current status of food and nutrition security in India based on data and reports released at national and international levels. India has made concerted efforts to convert the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into action plans to warrant access to sufficient and nutritive food. Food systems in the country have been transformed based on imminent priorities and capabilities in order to fulfill, particularly, the Goal 2 of the 2030 that aims to “end hunger, achieve food security, and promote sustainable agriculture”. There are, however, crucial gaps, and it is the need of the hour to channel sustained efforts to conquer these obstacles. The indispensables envisage a phased and multi-pronged approach engaging various sectors that increase the reach of nutrition and health programs for women and children, and more targeted agricultural investments. Elderly in India also face food insecurity, though the issue is less highlighted. Targeted investments in agriculture are particularly important as it could pave the way for greater accessibility to food, thus, ensuring food security and expediting advancements in attaining the SDGs.