Pathways from agriculture-to-nutrition in India: implications for sustainable development goals

Abstract

Using a disaggregated dashboard approach with agriculture, food consumption, and demographic and health survey data, this study examines the progress of Indian states towards the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 on hunger and nutrition across different years. There is evidence of both disconnects and linkages among food security indicators along the agriculture-to-nutrition pathways across states. This heterogeneity implies that a food security policy with a single focus is not appropriate, given that there are more disconnects prevailing than linkages. The southern states performed better than the rest on almost all indicators, which was primarily attributed to better governance in ensuring food security. We also provide a mapping of the SDG 2 sub-goals, corresponding indicators, and to what extent their attainment is addressed in existing policies. Through a broadened and comprehensive approach under one coordinating body with a good set of improved interventions and governance, Indian states could attain food and nutrition security by 2030.