World Food Day, 2025
Context:
World Food Day is observed annually on October 16 to promote awareness about food security, nutrition, and sustainable agriculture.
The day marks the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in 1945
Theme for 2025
The theme for World Food Day 2025 is "Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future" which highlights the importance of global cooperation among governments, organizations, and communities to transform agrifood systems.
Key Government Initiatives for Food Security
National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013:
The act covers up to 75% of the rural and 50% of the urban population.
Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families receive 35 kg of foodgrains per month.
Priority households get 5 kg per person per month.
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY):
Initially it was launched to assist the poor during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now, this scheme distributes foodgrains free of cost to households covered under the NFSA.
The provision of free foodgrains has been extended for five years from January 1, 2024
PM POSHAN (POshan SHakti Nirman) Scheme:
This initiative aims to improve the nutritional status of children in Government and Government-aided schools by providing one nutritious hot cooked mid-day meal
Rice Fortification:
To combat micronutrient deficiencies, the government has mandated the supply of fortified rice through all its food-based schemes.
Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK) are blended with normal rice and contain key micronutrients like Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12.
By March 2024, 100% of rice supplied under central government schemes was fortified.
Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses:
It was launched on October 11, 2025.
This mission aims to boost domestic pulse production to enhance nutritional security and achieve self-reliance.
WWF Living Planet Report and the Indian Thali
The Indian Thali has gained global recognition in the WWF Living Planet Report for its significant contribution to nutrition and sustainability
Key Findings:
The report highlights that the traditional Indian diet (largely plant-based like grains, pulses, lentils, vegetables) significantly reduces the use of natural resources and lowers greenhouse gas emissions compared to animal-based diets
Global Impact:
The report suggests that if the global population adopted India's consumption patterns, the world would only require 0.84 of an Earth by 2050 to sustain global food production.