Despite the implementation of numerous policies and schemes aimed at combating hunger and malnutrition in the country, their effectiveness remains limited. Analyse.

Reasons for such malnutrition and hunger: 1. Adultication of food, water, preventive measures 2. Rising population (20% declared) reduces availability 3. Patriarchy in society → restricts food for women and girls 4. Water stress in India → worst in top 17 countries 5. Limited millet/pulses production and consumption amidst inflation/scarcity 6. Climate change impacting food supply by 80% lowers paddy yield ESAA 7. 40% of food wasted FAO in transportation, storage in India's population Way Forward: 1. Increasing availability of nutritious food through affordable PDS such as Bharat ATTA, millet (PDS/MDM) 2. Increasing awareness through ASHA and ASHA DADS 3. Behavioral change through Swasth Bharat Mission, milles, and NGOs 4. Bio-fortification across food items through robust Food Processing Industry and efficient supply chain

— MUDITA BANSAL · AIR 44