An Analysis of Food and Nutritional Security Status in India

The study presents the status of food and nutritional security at the national level by looking at the performance of agricultural sector with a focus on foodgrains and high-value food commodities. The time series data at all-India level on area, production and productivity of foodgrains, production and per capita availability of milk and eggs and production of meat were compiled for the period 1985–86 to 2014–15. During the overall period, the area under foodgrains has shown a negative growth rate, whereas production and productivity growths have been found positive. For milk and eggs, both production and per-capita availability have revealed a positive growth. The production of meat, vegetables and fruits has shown a positively significant growth rate. In general, for foodgrains, the yield effect, was higher than the area effect, which could be attributed to the increased adoption of high-yielding varieties. For vegetables and fruits, the contribution of area effect was more than that of yield and interaction, suggesting that measures should be taken to improve their productivity. The improved performance in the overall agricultural sector has shown an improved level of food security, but it is not sufficient to ensure nutritional security across the country. The study has suggested that dietary diversification and improved role of agricultural extension services can be instru-mental in improving the nutritional status of people in the country.