An Economic Analysis of Food Insecurity and Sustainable Development Goals in India

Abstract

Food insecurity remains one of the major socio-economic challenges in India despite significant progress in agricultural production and economic growth. This study examines the economic dimensions of food insecurity and its relationship with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). The paper analyses the causes, regional disparities, and socio-economic consequences of food insecurity using secondary data from government reports, national surveys, and international development databases. Factors such as poverty, unemployment, inflation, unequal income distribution, climate change, and inadequate access to nutritious food are identified as key determinants of food insecurity in India. The study further evaluates government initiatives including the Public Distribution System (PDS), National Food Security Act (NFSA), Mid-Day Meal Scheme, and other welfare programs aimed at improving food access and nutritional security. The findings indicate that while policy interventions have contributed to reducing hunger and malnutrition, significant gaps continue to exist across rural and urban populations, gender groups, and economically weaker sections. The study concludes that achieving sustainable food security in India requires inclusive economic growth, effective policy implementation, agricultural sustainability, and strengthened social protection measures aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.