This study has described the linkages of nutrition-agriculture-poverty and health and has suggested some extension and policy strategies for achieving food and nutrition security in India. The agricultural growth has the highest power for reducing malnutrition and poverty (2 to 4-times higher than other sectors) in the country. Several programmes on agricultural production and extension, social safety net, nutritional security, etc. have been initiated keeping in view the emerging scenarios of poverty and nutritional security. Currently, food production is dictated by the consumers. The consumption pattern of different consumer segments of the society has been synchronized with appropriate mix of production portfolios at farmer's field levels. For amelioration of nutrition problem, the study has suggested that extension system should follow a collective approach, with market-based extension, women empowerment, more use of ICT and convergence approach. The policy makers should give priority to nutrition in public research, follow public information campaign, accomplish land reform agenda, bring effective trade policies and market reforms for nutrition security of the individuals, households and the nation.
Nutrition, food security, agricultural policies, agricultural extension
