India ranks second globally in food waste despite having 194 million food-insecure people. Examine the structural causes of food loss and waste in India and suggest a policy framework to address this paradox.

Question

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Introduction

India faces a paradox of significant food wastage alongside widespread food insecurity, reflecting inefficiencies across the food supply chain rather than mere production deficits.

Structural Causes of Food Loss and Waste

Post-harvest losses due to inadequate storage, cold chain infrastructure, and fragmented supply chains
Inefficient agricultural marketing systems, including APMC rigidities and long intermediation chains
Poor logistics and transportation leading to spoilage of perishable commodities
Lack of food processing capacity, especially for fruits and vegetables
Consumer-level waste driven by changing consumption patterns, urban affluence, and bulk purchasing
Institutional waste in events, hotels, and supply chains due to lack of redistribution mechanisms
Weak data systems and absence of standardised measurement of food waste

Policy Framework

Strengthen post-harvest infrastructure through investment in warehouses, cold chains, and rural logistics
Promote food processing and value addition to reduce perishability
Reform agricultural markets to enable direct farmer-to-consumer linkages and reduce inefficiencies
Create legal and fiscal incentives for food donation, including liability protection and tax benefits
Mandate food waste audits and reporting for large businesses and institutions
Encourage behavioural change through awareness campaigns and responsible consumption practices
Leverage digital platforms to connect surplus food with needy populations (e.g., NGOs, food banks)

Conclusion

Addressing food waste requires a systems-based approach that integrates production, distribution, and consumption. Bridging this gap is essential for ensuring food security, resource efficiency, and sustainable development.

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