India’s recent ranking of 105th out of 127 countries in the 2024 Global Hunger Index (GHI) presents a troubling narrative regarding hunger and malnutrition in a country that is often celebrated for its rapid economic growth. In light of its remarkable economic expansion, which has elevated India’s GDP to the ranks of leading emerging economies, the nation nonetheless grapples with distressing levels of food insecurity. The GHI, a composite index evaluating hunger via indicators like undernourishment, child stunting, child wasting, and child mortality, indicates that around 13.7% of the Indian population experiences undernourishment. The data presents a concerning picture for children under five years of age, revealing that 35.5% experience stunting, 18.7% face wasting, and 2.9% do not reach their fifth birthday.
The juxtaposition of rapid economic progress with high rates of hunger raises critical questions about the effectiveness of India’s current food security policies. Despite its economic advancements, India has seen little improvement in its GHI score over the years. In comparison, neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and Nepal have successfully improved their nutritional outcomes, highlighting the urgent need for India to reassess its approach to food security and hunger. Regional disparities exacerbate the issue, with significant differences in nutritional outcomes between urban and rural populations. Rural areas, where poverty remains prevalent, exhibit higher rates of food insecurity and malnutrition than their urban counterparts. This stark divide poses fundamental questions about the accessibility and affordability of nutritious food for all Indians. The high rates of child malnutrition—specifically stunting and wasting—signal a systemic failure to provide adequate nutrition to the youngest segments of the population during their critical development periods. This malnutrition not only affects immediate health outcomes but also has long-term repercussions on cognitive development and future productivity, jeopardizing the nation’s potential. One of the underlying factors contributing to the high levels of hunger and malnutrition in India is the pervasive gender disparity in access to resources. Women and girls, often at the forefront of food insecurity, face challenges due to discriminatory norms, limited access to education, and economic opportunities. The 2024 GHI reveals that women are particularly vulnerable, and addressing gender inequality is crucial for breaking the cycle of malnutrition. Empowering women through education and resource access is essential for improving food security and overall health outcomes for families. Compounding these issues is the impact of climate change on food security in India. Agricultural productivity, which is vital for food production, is increasingly threatened by erratic weather patterns, shifting rainfall distributions, and the frequency of natural disasters. As a significant portion of India’s population relies on agriculture for their livelihoods, the implications of climate change are profound. Implementing sustainable agricultural practices and investing in climate-resilient crops are essential steps to ensure food security amidst a changing climate. Moreover, while India remains relatively stable compared to its neighbours, the potential for conflict arising from economic disparities and social unrest cannot be overlooked. Political instability threatens to undermine food security efforts and exacerbate hunger crises. This situation necessitates a comprehensive approach that not only addresses immediate food needs but also tackles the structural issues contributing to food insecurity. In light of the findings from the 2024 GHI, it is clear that India must undertake a thorough re-evaluation of its policies addressing hunger and malnutrition. Current initiatives, while well-intentioned, are inadequate for addressing the scale of the crisis. A more holistic strategy is required, one that aligns economic growth with targeted interventions aimed at improving nutrition and food security. Effective policy measures should ensure access to nutritious food for all segments of the population, enhance healthcare infrastructure, and invest in maternal and child nutrition programs. Initiatives like the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and the PM POSHAN Scheme must be strengthened and expanded to reach vulnerable communities effectively. Furthermore, data-driven policies that leverage evidence and best practices will be instrumental in informing decision-making and enhancing the effectiveness of interventions. Regular assessments of nutritional outcomes and food security indicators can help identify areas needing attention, while community engagement in program design can ensure interventions are culturally relevant and responsive to local needs.
India’s ranking in the 2024 Global Hunger Index serves as a critical call to action, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive policy interventions to address hunger and malnutrition. By prioritizing the needs of vulnerable populations, especially women and children, and adopting a multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes of hunger, India can strive toward a future where food security is a reality for all its citizens.