ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question 2(e) Food Security, Hunger and Malnutrition in India

ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question 2(e) Food Security, Hunger and Malnutrition in India. Detailed answer discussing the causes of food insecurity and measures to address hunger and malnutrition in India.

ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question 2(e) Food Security, Hunger and Malnutrition in India

ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question

Q.2(e) Discuss the issues of food security, hunger, and malnutrition in India. Suggest measures to address these challenges.

Answer :

Food security in India has improved significantly due to increased agricultural production and various welfare programs. However, hunger and malnutrition continue to affect a substantial section of the population, particularly children, women, and economically weaker groups.

One of the primary causes of food insecurity is poverty, which limits access to nutritious food despite adequate food availability at the national level. Income inequality and unemployment further contribute to hunger.

Malnutrition remains a serious concern in the form of stunting, wasting, underweight children, and anemia among women and children. Poor dietary diversity, inadequate healthcare, and lack of awareness about nutrition aggravate the problem.

Regional disparities, climate-related disruptions, and inefficient distribution systems can also affect food accessibility. In many cases, food insecurity is linked not only to availability but also to affordability and nutritional quality.

The Government of India has implemented several initiatives such as:

• National Food Security Act (NFSA)

• Public Distribution System (PDS)

• Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)

• Mid-Day Meal Scheme

• POSHAN Abhiyaan

  
  

To further improve food security, emphasis should be placed on:

• Strengthening nutrition-focused programs.

• Improving healthcare and sanitation.

• Promoting agricultural diversification and climate-resilient farming.

• Enhancing women's education and empowerment.

• Reducing poverty through employment and income-generation opportunities.

  
  

A comprehensive approach integrating food, nutrition, health, and social welfare policies is essential for sustainable outcomes.

Conclusion

Food security, hunger, and malnutrition are interconnected challenges that require coordinated action across multiple sectors. Ensuring access to nutritious food, improving public health, and reducing poverty are essential for achieving sustainable human development in India.