The Path to Ending Global Hunger Runs Through India

Context

State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2025 (UN FAO report) highlights global undernourishment at 673 million (8.2%) in 2024, down from 688 million (2023).
India played a decisive role in reversing the trend through reforms in food security & nutrition.

India’s Performance

Undernourishment declined from 14.3% (2020–22) → 12% (2022–24).
30 million fewer hungry people despite COVID-19 disruptions.
Public Distribution System (PDS) transformation central to progress.

PDS Transformation

Digitalisation: Aadhaar-enabled targeting, biometric authentication.
Portability: One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) → crucial for migrants.
Tech Tools: real-time inventory tracking, e-PoS devices.
Scale: Subsidised food to 800+ million people during pandemic.

Challenges Beyond Calories

60% population cannot afford a healthy diet.
High cost of nutrient-rich foods (pulses, fruits, vegetables, animal products).
Supply-side issues: inadequate cold chains, market inefficiencies.
Rising concerns: malnutrition, obesity, micronutrient deficiencies.

Nutrition-Centric Initiatives

PM Poshan Shakti Nirman (2021) – school feeding scheme with dietary diversity.
Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) – nutrition-sensitive interventions.
UN data shows India is making healthy diets more affordable despite food inflation.

Need for Agrifood System Transformation

Boost production & affordability of nutrient-rich foods.
Post-harvest infrastructure: cold storage, digital logistics. (Reduce ~13% food loss).
Women-led enterprises & FPOs: focus on climate-resilient crops.
Digital advantage: AgriStack, e-NAM, geospatial data for better planning & delivery.

India’s Global Role

India’s progress = global contribution (esp. Global South).
Innovations in digital governance, social protection, and agri-data are exportable models.
Critical for SDG-2 (Zero Hunger) by 2030.

Conclusion

India’s success in reducing undernourishment illustrates the power of combining political will, digital innovations, and inclusive social protection. However, the real test ahead lies in shifting from food security (calories) to nutrition security (diverse, affordable, healthy diets). Strengthening agrifood systems, reducing food loss, and empowering women and smallholders will be crucial. Given its scale and experience, India’s leadership is not only essential for its own citizens but also for driving global progress toward ending hunger and achieving SDG-2 by 2030