heritage, is increasingly grappling with the adverse impacts of climate change.
Context: Northeast India, a region celebrated for its rich biodiversity and distinct cultural
heritage, is increasingly grappling with the adverse impacts of climate change. This ecological upheaval is particularly threatening the region’s indigenous food systems, which are deeply intertwined with its natural environment. The region’s agriculture, heavily reliant on monsoon rains, is becoming increasingly vulnerable. Erratic rainfall patterns, coupled with frequent and intense floods and droughts, disrupt the traditional agricultural calendar, leading to significant crop failures. Extreme weather events like floods and droughts have become more frequent and intense, further damaging crops and infrastructure. Additionally, climate change is contributing to the proliferation of pests and diseases, further jeopardising food security.
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Key points
·Overview: According to the World Food Programme, 195 million people in India are undernourished. 43% of children in India are chronically undernourished. India ranks 68 out of 113 major countries in terms of the Global food security index 2022.
·Need for food security
Population Pressure - With over 1.3 billion people, India has a large and growing population. The increasing demand for food places significant pressure on agricultural production and food resources.
Agricultural Productivity - India’s agricultural sector is characterized by low productivity due to several factors such as fragmented land holdings, inadequate irrigation facilities, lack of modern farming techniques, and limited access to credit and technology.
Climate Change and Natural Disasters - Erratic weather patterns, including droughts,
floods, and extreme temperatures, affect crop yields and livestock productivity.
·Challenges related to food security
Sustainable Agriculture Practices - Promote sustainable farming practices such as organic farming, agroforestry, and integrated pest management. These practices enhance soil fertility, reduce chemical inputs, and conserve water, leading to increased productivity and resilience.
Research and Technology - Developing high-yielding crop varieties, drought and pest-resistant seeds, and innovative farming techniques. Encourage the adoption of modern technologies like precision agriculture, remote sensing, and digital farming tools to optimize resource use and improve productivity.
·National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013: The National Food Security Bill, which was passed in India in 2013 and subsequently enacted as the National Food Security Act (NFSA), is a landmark legislation aimed at ensuring food security for the population.
Way Forward: It refers to the state in which all individuals within a country have access to an adequate supply of nutritious food, can afford to purchase high-quality food, and face no obstacles in obtaining it. While those living in poverty often struggle to meet their food needs, even wealthier individuals can experience food insecurity during emergencies or crises. In India, numerous people encounter issues with food and nutrition security, with groups being more severely impacted.
