India Reduces Undernourished Population by 42%, But 520 Million Still Can't Afford Healthy Diet
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Employment & inclusive growth· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The SOFI 2026 report highlights India's 42% reduction in undernourished population while identifying that 520 million people still face dietary unaffordability.
Background
The State of Food Security and Nutrition (SOFI) 2026 report by five UN agencies reveals that the cost of a healthy diet in India rose by over one-third to $4.11 per person daily in PPP terms since 2019. Despite progress, 520 million Indians remain unable to afford regular healthy diets.
Facts for Prelims
- Report / IndexSOFI 2026: Report by five UN agencies on global food security and nutrition
- Fact42% reduction in India's undernourished population over the last two decades
- FactCost of a healthy diet in India: $4.11 per person daily in PPP terms as of 2026
- Fact520 million Indians currently unable to afford a healthy diet regularly
For Mains
Q. Despite significant progress in reducing undernourishment, why does India continue to face a 'hidden hunger' crisis regarding the affordability of healthy diets?
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Price-inflation gap: Rising costs of nutrient-dense foods outpacing wage growth for low-income households
- Climate-induced volatility: Impact of extreme weather on local crop yields and subsequent food price spikes
- Nutritional transition: Shift from caloric sufficiency to micronutrient deficiency due to cheap, processed food availability
Keywords: Food Security · Nutritional Transition · PPP Terms · Hidden Hunger · Food Inflation
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