Understanding and meeting the challenge of food security in the times of crisis in India

Economic growth inevitably influences the food chain. Ensuring food and nutrition security is a challenge for India, given its huge population and high levels of poverty and malnutrition. India is a net agricultural exporter, particularly of milk, fruits and vegetables, and cereals. However, food availability is threatened by the effects of climate change and declining water resources on agriculture output. About 44% of children under the age of 5 are underweight, around half of pregnant women are anemic, and the majority of women do not have access to toilet facilities and safe drinking water. Statistics present a confusing picture of India's progress on food security. Both per capita food grain consumption and total calorific intake have declined slightly in recent years among all levels of the population. At the same time, grain surpluses have reached peak levels and real per capita expenditure on food is raising among all income groups. In conclusion, an attempt has been made to outline geographic, demographic, nutritional and economic profile of India.