Smart City Foundation

Nourishing the World: A Global and Indian Perspective on SDG 2

—

by

Shuhool Fotedar
in

The Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2) aims to “end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture” by 2030. This complex challenge requires comprehensive solutions addressing food availability, access, utilization, and stability.

Top 5 Ranking Countries in SDG 2 (2023):

  1. Finland (87.73)
  2. Sweden (86.82)
  3. Denmark (86.54)
  4. Norway (86.45)
  5. Ireland (85.82)

These countries have achieved remarkable success in ensuring food security for their citizens. They boast high levels of agricultural productivity, robust social safety nets, and efficient food distribution systems. Additionally, they prioritize sustainable agricultural practices and environmental protection.

India’s Achievement Compared to the Top 5:

India currently ranks 101st in the SDG 2 index with a score of 66.05. While the country has made progress in increasing food production and reducing hunger, significant challenges remain. Millions still suffer from food insecurity and malnutrition, particularly in rural areas.

Areas of Focus for India’s SDG 2 Progress:

  • Small-holder Farmer Support: Strengthening support for small-holder farmers, who account for a large portion of India’s agricultural production, through access to resources, technology, and market linkages.
  • Food Loss and Waste Reduction: Implementing measures to reduce food loss and waste throughout the supply chain, from farm to consumer.
  • Nutrition Education: Promoting awareness about healthy eating habits and diverse diets to address micronutrient deficiencies and improve overall health.
  • Climate-Smart Agriculture: Adapting agricultural practices to mitigate the impacts of climate change and build resilience in the face of extreme weather events.
  • Investment in Sustainable Agriculture: Encouraging investments in research and development of sustainable agricultural technologies and practices.

Data Sources:

By taking decisive action in these areas, India can unlock its immense potential to achieve SDG 2 and ensure food security and nutrition for all its citizens. This will require a collaborative effort involving the government, farmers, businesses, and civil society organizations, working together to build a more sustainable and equitable food system for the future.