The Global Hunger Index 2023 ranks India 111th out of 125 countries, highlighting that malnutrition, stunting and micronutrient deficiencies remain widespread.

What is the Nutrition Paradox?

• India has achieved self-sufficiency in food production and even export food yet the problem of hunger persists in India. 
• Issues like undernutrition and hidden hunger persists in India. The Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2023 ranks India 111th out of 125 countries.

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• The Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2023 ranks India 111th out of 125 countries.
• The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019-2021) shows that undernutrition persists—35.5 percent of children under five are stunted, and 19.3 percent suffer from wasting.

Reasons that Exacerbate Food Insecurity and Hidden Hunger

• Income Disparity: Income disparities exacerbate food insecurity in certain regions. Many people due to poverty cannot afford sufficient food, leading to chronic hunger.
  • Lack of awareness regarding sources of nutrients could be the reason for hidden hunger among the rich.
• Gender Inequality
• Limited healthcare access

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Solution: Community-Led Nutrition Hubs

• Local Knowledge and Leadership: Community-led nutrition hubs provide a grassroots solution to food insecurity by leveraging local knowledge and leadership. 
  • These hubs focus on sustainable, context-specific approaches, promoting balanced diets tailored to geographical needs, prioritising nutrition over mere caloric intake for healthier communities.
• Balanced and Diverse Diet: Nutrition hubs encourage the consumption of diverse foods, including fruits, vegetables, legumes, and animal products, essential for a balanced diet.
• Supporting Vulnerable Groups: These hubs effectively reach vulnerable populations like children, pregnant women, poor and the elderly. 
  • They provide tailored nutritional support, fortified foods, supplements, and education on specific nutritional needs.

• Leveraging Local Agriculture: Such hubs could promote and support local food production and sustainable agricultural practices, increasing access to fresh, nutritious foods. 
  • This would reduce dependency on external support. This would also reduce the price which often increases due to transportation.
• Impact of Community-Led Nutrition Hubs: As per Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) there was a 20 per cent reduction in stunting rates among children under five in regions of Uttar Pradesh following the introduction of nutrition hubs.

Other Solutions

• Men as Partner (Gender Equity): Often the burden of nutrients and food security lie on the women. Men should also participate in nutrition hubs, whether through farming, cooking, or community organising.
• Youth Engagement: Involving young people in these efforts ensures the continuation of community-led initiatives. Youth are able to bring fresh ideas and energy to the table.
• Local Government Support: Local governments can support and scale these initiatives by providing funding, policy support, and infrastructure, making nutrition hubs integral parts of community development.

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Conclusion

Achieving the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” requires ensuring food security and building resilience through community-led initiatives. A whole-of-society approach, involving all members, is essential to create a balanced and inclusive future for all.

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