India is shifting from basic food security to comprehensive nutritional security, focusing on micronutrients, maternal health, diet diversity and climate-resilient agriculture for sustainable human development.

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•  Despite progress in food grain production, nearly 12% of India’s population remains undernourished and ranks low in the Global Hunger Index 2025.
•  Around 35% of children under five are stunted and 18.7% are wasted, reflecting persistent chronic and acute malnutrition challenges.
•  Anaemia affects over half of women and children, highlighting widespread micronutrient deficiencies despite supplementation and welfare programs.
• Rice fortification and biofortified crop varieties are being promoted to improve iron, zinc and protein intake passively through public distribution systems.
• Digital monitoring through Poshan Tracker ensures real-time tracking of beneficiaries and strengthens transparency in nutrition delivery.
• Millets and region-specific grains are being integrated into procurement systems to improve diet diversity and address diabetes and obesity concerns.
•  Climate change threatens nutrient density in staple crops, making climate-smart agriculture essential for future food and nutrition security.
•  Rising food inflation, limited access to fruits, vegetables and proteins, and poor sanitation weaken the overall impact of nutrition programs.