Name: Dhakshayani M. Dongre
Country: India

Year: 2026
Volume: Volume-16, Issue-1 (Special Issue: March 2026)
Page Number: 43-52
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19146252

ABSTRACT
According to the 2025 Global Hunger Index (GHI), India is placed 102nd among 123
countries, with a score of 25.8, indicating a ―serious‖ level of hunger. Although India is one of the world‘s largest food producers, persistent challenges such as child undernutrition— reflected in high rates of stunting, wasting, and child mortality—continue to affect its overall performance. Structural issues including poverty, inadequate sanitation, and significant regional inequalities further contribute to the problem. The Global Hunger Index evaluates hunger using four key indicators: undernourishment, child wasting, child stunting, and child mortality. A review of GHI reports from recent years highlights ongoing concerns despite policy interventions and welfare schemes aimed at improving food security. The paradox of modern development is evident in the coexistence of food abundance and widespread hunger. While many countries have achieved overall food sufficiency, unequal distribution o