The 2024 Global Hunger Index (GHI) is out, and while India has made some progress, the findings are a sobering reminder that we have a long way to go. Our GHI score of 27.3 reflects serious levels of hunger, and the persistent issues of child malnutrition demand immediate attention. The GHI has delivered a harsh reality check for India, and it’s far worse than we can afford to ignore. This isn’t just a statistic—it’s a national emergency that’s devastating millions, particularly our children.
Shocking Highlights:
- Child Wasting (acute undernutrition) remains remains alarmingly high and is one of the highest in the world. How is it acceptable that in 2024, so many children are wasting away before our eyes?
- Child Stunting (chronic undernutrition) continues to affect millions, reflecting the need for better maternal and child health interventions. We are failing to provide even the basic foundation for a healthy future.
- Appalling diets among vulnerable communities persist. India is a nation of 1.4 billion, and yet millions can’t access nutritious food—where is the accountability?
With just 6 years left to achieve the Zero Hunger goal by 2030, we are nowhere near the finish line. The clock is ticking, but who’s listening?
We demand urgent action NOW:
Dietary Diversity: Beyond staple grains, we need nutrition programs that promote healthy, balanced diets for all. It’s time to stop relying on quick fixes. We need immediate reforms in our nutrition programs to provide balanced, nutritious meals—anything less is a death sentence for millions.
Maternal and Child Health: Addressing malnutrition across generations requires dedicated efforts for better healthcare and nutrition support. How can we expect progress when mothers and children are left to suffer? This crisis demands immediate investment in healthcare and targeted nutrition support.
Climate Change: Rising food prices and environmental impacts are hitting the poorest the hardest—urgent climate action and economic resilience are critical to overcoming hunger. Without bold climate action and economic intervention, we are condemning the most vulnerable to starvation.
Let’s raise awareness, advocate for better policies, and work towards a future where no one goes hungry in India. India cannot afford this crisis any longer. It’s time to wake up, raise our voices, and demand better policies, more funding, and real solutions to this catastrophe. Our nation’s future depends on it.
Please read the full report at: https://www.globalhungerindex.org/pdf/en/2024.pdf