India Urged To Shift Focus From Food Security To Nutrition Security

India’s food security framework has successfully ensured access to staples like rice and wheat for millions. However, Paswan stressed that the next challenge lies in tackling malnutrition and hidden hunger. Nutrition security, he argued, is essential to improve public health outcomes and support sustainable development.  

From Food To Nutrition  
Paswan noted that while food security guarantees calorie intake, it does not ensure balanced nutrition. India continues to face high levels of anemia, stunting, and micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among women and children. Addressing these requires a shift in policy focus from quantity to quality.  

Policy Measures  
The government has already introduced fortified rice in PDS and mid-day meal schemes. Paswan suggested expanding these initiatives to include pulses, millets, and protein-rich foods. He also called for greater awareness campaigns to encourage healthier dietary practices among households.  

Nutritional Priorities  

• Food security ensures staple availability but lacks nutritional diversity  
• India faces challenges of anemia, stunting, and micronutrient deficiencies  
• Fortified rice introduced in PDS and school meals  
• Need to expand inclusion of pulses, millets, and protein-rich foods  
• Awareness campaigns critical for promoting balanced diets  

Future Outlook  
Experts believe that transitioning to nutrition security will require coordinated efforts across ministries, private sector participation, and community-level interventions. With India aiming to meet Sustainable Development Goals, nutrition-focused policies could play a decisive role in improving health indicators and reducing long-term healthcare costs.  

Sources: Economic Times, Business Standard, Mint, NDTV