Food Security and Nutrition: India and WFP Unite: A New Memorandum
Strengthening Food Security and Nutrition in India
India and the World Food Programme (WFP) have taken a significant step towards addressing national priorities in food security and nutrition. The two entities signed a memorandum today to focus on infrastructure development and technical support, with the aim of achieving strategic outcomes for more effective and efficient national food-based social protection systems.
Agricultural Development and Climate-Resilient Livelihoods
The agreement, signed by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and the UN agency, aims to increase consumption of diverse, nutritious, and fortified foods. Climate-resilient livelihoods and food systems will be strengthened, thereby improving women’s social and financial mobility. Furthermore, adaptive capacity to build resilience in fishing communities will be enhanced through the Safe Fishing application.
Improving Food Security for Small Farmers
In New Delhi, WFP Country Director Elizabeth Faure briefed officials on various agricultural transformation projects. Subsequently, the meeting delved into strategies for enhancing sustenance availability for small-scale farmers in several states. Notably, they examined Assam, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh’s situations.Moreover, the discussion shifted to nationwide endeavors promoting millet consumption. This nutrient-dense cereal boasts numerous health advantages. Consequently, these efforts align with the broader goal of Food Security and Nutrition. Additionally, they explored potential Climate-Resilient Livelihoods for farmers. In essence, this multifaceted approach aims to fortify the nation’s nutritional landscape and agricultural resilience.
Promoting Nutrition through Local Varieties
Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Devesh Chaturvedi emphasized the importance of identifying scalable interventions and initiatives, and preparing a mechanism to include them in ongoing programmes of ministries and departments. He suggested that WFP organize a workshop to discuss projects in the agricultural sector, focusing on nutrition outcomes and observing applicable standards for the South Asian nation.
Incorporating Agricultural Producer Organizations
Chaturvedi advocated for the promotion of local red and black rice varieties and millets. These nutrient-rich grains deserve attention. Furthermore, he suggested investigating ways to integrate Agricultural Producer Organizations into various programs. This fusion could enhance sustenance availability, especially in rural regions.India and WFP’s partnership strives to make substantial progress in achieving Food Security and Nutrition for all citizens. As a consequence, this agreement heralds a fresh chapter of cooperation. Its execution will undoubtedly transform countless Indian lives. Moreover, it paves the way for Climate-Resilient Livelihoods, ensuring a more stable and nourishing tomorrow for the nation.
Source: Prensa latina