Source-This post on Global Hunger Index 2024 report is based on the article “What does the Global Hunger Index 2024 state about India?” published in “The Hindu” on 17th october 2024.
Why in the News?
Recently, Global Hunger Index 2024 was released by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe. It indicates that India faces a ‘serious’ hunger situation, ranking 105th out of 127 countries.
India’s Hunger Situation in 2024
1. India scores 27.3, placing it at 105th out of 127 countries.
On this scale, a score under 9.9 represents low hunger levels, 10-19.9 signifies moderate hunger, 35-49.9 is alarming, and scores above 50 are classified as extremely alarming.
2. Indicators Used for Ranking:
| Indicators | Status |
| Undernourishment | 13.7% of India’s population has inadequate caloric intake. |
| Child Stunting | 35.5% of children under five are stunted, indicating chronic undernutrition. |
| Child Wasting | India has the highest global rate, with 18.7% of children under five experiencing wasting (low weight relative to height). |
| Child Mortality | 2.9% of children do not survive past their fifth birthday. |
India’s Efforts and Areas for Improvement
1. Political Will and Initiatives: The report acknowledges India’s initiatives like the National Food Security Act, Poshan Abhiyan, PMGKAY, and the National Mission for Natural Farming as significant steps toward addressing hunger and malnutrition.
2. Intergenerational Undernutrition: The report highlights a pattern of undernutrition passed down through generations, linking maternal malnutrition and low birth weight with high child wasting rates.
3. GDP Growth and Nutritional Security: The report notes that economic growth does not automatically translate into reduced hunger and emphasizes the need for pro-poor policies that also address social and economic inequalities.
Proposed Solutions
1. Enhanced Social Safety Nets: Recommendations include expanding access to Public Distribution Scheme (PDS), PMGKAY, and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) for improved food security.
2. Investments in Agriculture and Diversified Food Production: Advocates for a holistic food systems approach that emphasizes ecological and nutritious crops like millets.
3. Maternal and Child Health Investments: Suggests improving sanitation, water, and hygiene to support better health outcomes for mothers and children.
4. Integration with Gender and Climate Change: Calls for policies that consider the interplay between nutrition, gender, and climate resilience.
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