Jacob Hembrom SJ
We human beings can remain alive even if we do not have proper shelter or decent cloth. But without food we cannot survive. Food is one of the utmost requirements to sustain our life. Many are privileged to have meals on time. But what about the millions of poor people who go to bed on empty stomach each night?
In fact, what could be the principal cause of our horrific scenario of dire poverty that we have today? The father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi has rightly said “the world has enough for everyone’s needs, but not everyone’s greed”.
Today, in 21st century, circumstances remain the same. We have two extreme contrasts. Richest countries and poorest countries! On ‘world food day 2020’, Pope Francis writes, “hunger is not only a tragedy for humanity, but also a shame. It is caused largely by an unequal distribution of the fruits of the earth, compounded by a lack of investment in the agricultural sector, the consequences of climate change and in the increase in conflicts in various areas of the planet”.
The world food day promotes worldwide awareness and action for those who suffer from hunger and for the need to ensure food security and nutritious diets for all. The focus of the day is that food is a basic and fundamental human right. Yet, we know, in a world of billions, over 820 million people worldwide suffering chronic undernourishment, 60% women and almost five million children under the age of five die of malnutrition – related causes every day (sources).
This day reminds us how we can make our food generating systems more healthy and sustainable diets, affordable and accessible to everyone. This day comes to us with a message that without healthy nature and biodiversity we cannot have quality nutrition and without quality nutrition we cannot have good health.
According to Food and agricultural Organization 40 percent of the food produced in India are wasted. This is mainly due to lack of storage facilities. Around 20 percent of the food in India is lost before even they reach the markets (sources). In India, majority of the population depend on agriculture. In which most of them work under informal sector. This year Pandemic has restricted their movement. Due to this, there is increased food insecurity in the country and nutrition security worsened. Moreover, the poor are the victims.
Incredible steps have been taken by a handful of individuals or associations to reduce hunger and improve nutrition around the globe. It is their tireless effort that bridges this huge gap. We are to appreciate such noble initiatives, join our hands with such individuals, exchange our views with such platforms to ensure that every individual has his/her share on this planet which is a ‘common home’ for everyone.