Right to Food as Human Right in India: Strategy and Approaches
Abstract
Food is a basic human right-a right to livelihood and life itself. It has been recognized in India as a part of the Right to Life enshrined under Article 21 of the Constitution. However, amidst the gains from economic growth, hunger, and malnutrition persist and continue to be critical issues, especially amongst the most marginal sections. This paper looks at the right to food within the Indian context, dealing with aspects that take into consideration availability, accessibility, adequacy, and sustainability. It gives an overview of the international human rights framework, constitutional and legal obligations in India, prevailing food security situation across vulnerable groups, and initiatives by the government. The Supreme Court of India has played a major role in establishing the right to food through various landmark orders, one being PUCL v. Union of India & Others, after which the Government of India enacted the National Food Security Act (NFSA) in 2013. According to NFSA, subsidized food grains are to be provided to two-thirds of the population; however, their implementation remains a challenge. Realization of the right to food, therefore, needs an integrated and rights-based approach, entailing effective legislation of food rights, strengthening of food security schemes, promoting sustainable agriculture, addressing root causes of hunger and malnutrition, and increasing community participation and accountability. In doing so, India would adopt strategies aimed at ensuring that food security is assured for all citizens, dignity upheld, and social justice promoted. The commitment to the right to food is both a moral and legal imperative for reaching a just and equable society.
How to Cite This Article
Abhishek Kumar Verma, Dr. Deepak Kumar Chauhan (2023).
Right to Food as Human Right in India: Strategy and Approaches
. International Journal of Judicial Law (IJJL), 2(2), 33-40. DOI: https://doi.org/10.54660/IJJL.2023.2.2.33-40