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Understanding India's Hunger Crisis: A 2023 Overview

Analyzing Hunger Rankings and States Affected

Understanding India's Hunger Crisis: A 2023 Overview

  • 19 Apr, 2024
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India's Hunger Crisis: An Overview

India currently faces a serious hunger crisis, ranking 107th out of 121 countries in the Global Hunger Index (GHI). This ranking highlights significant challenges in food security and nutrition across the nation. Internally, the State Hunger Index (SHI) reveals that many states are categorized as facing "serious" or "alarming" hunger levels.

States Most Affected by Hunger

Among the states, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh are the worst performers, receiving "alarming" scores on the SHI. Other states, including Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, also demonstrate concerning hunger statistics, indicating widespread food insecurity.

States Excelling in Hunger Mitigation

Conversely, some regions are making strides in combating hunger. Chandigarh, Sikkim, Puducherry, and Kerala report the lowest hunger scores, placing them in the "moderate" category. These states have implemented effective policies and programs that contribute to their relative success in addressing hunger.

Complex Causes of Hunger in India

The persistence of hunger in India is rooted in various complex factors. Notably, it is not solely about food production, as India is among the largest food producers globally. Key contributing factors include:

  • Poverty and inequality: Many individuals lack access to sufficient food due to economic disparities.
  • Poor nutrition: The focus on calorie intake often overlooks the importance of balanced nutrition.
  • Child health and nutrition: Insufficient attention to the nutritional needs of children exacerbates the hunger crisis.

Impact of COVID-19 on Hunger

The COVID-19 pandemic has likely had a detrimental effect on hunger levels in India, although comprehensive data is still pending. Early indications suggest that the pandemic may have worsened food security for many vulnerable populations, highlighting the need for urgent action and intervention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How does India rank in terms of hunger?
Answer: India ranks 107th out of 121 countries on the Global Hunger Index, indicating a serious hunger crisis. The State Hunger Index also shows many states fall into alarming categories.

Q2. Which Indian states are most affected by hunger?
Answer: Bihar, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh are the worst-performing states in terms of hunger, with alarming scores on the State Hunger Index.

Q3. Which states are doing the best in fighting hunger?
Answer: Chandigarh, Sikkim, Puducherry, and Kerala show the lowest hunger scores and are categorized as having moderate hunger levels.

Q4. Why does hunger persist in India despite high food production?
Answer: Hunger persists due to factors such as poverty, inequality in food access, poor nutrition, and insufficient focus on child health and nutrition.

Q5. How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected hunger in India?
Answer: The pandemic likely worsened the hunger situation, impacting vulnerable populations, although the full extent of its effects is still being assessed.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is India's rank in the Global Hunger Index 2023?
A) 100th
B) 107th
C) 121st
D) 95th
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which state has the lowest hunger score in India?
A) Gujarat
B) Bihar
C) Kerala
D) Jharkhand
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: What are the primary causes of hunger in India?
A) High food production
B) Economic disparities
C) Climate change
D) Urbanization
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which states are classified as having "alarming" hunger levels?
A) Kerala and Sikkim
B) Bihar and Jharkhand
C) Chandigarh and Puducherry
D) Gujarat and Maharashtra
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: How has COVID-19 impacted hunger in India?
A) Improved food security
B) Increased population
C) Worsened the situation
D) No impact
Correct Answer: C

Question 6: Which factors contribute to poor nutrition in India?
A) Access to education
B) High income
C) Poverty and inequality
D) Agricultural productivity
Correct Answer: C

Question 7: What role does child nutrition play in the hunger crisis?
A) It has no impact
B) It exacerbates the issue
C) It improves food security
D) It is unrelated
Correct Answer: B

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