Introduction
The National Food Security Act (NFSA), enacted in 2013, is a landmark legislation in India aimed at ensuring food and nutritional security for all citizens, especially the poor and vulnerable sections of society. It marks a shift from a welfare-based approach to a rights-based framework, making access to food a legal entitlement.
Main Objectives of the NFSA
- Provide subsidized food grains to approximately two-thirds of India’s population.
- Ensure nutritional support for women, children, and special groups like pregnant and lactating mothers.
- Strengthen food security at the individual and household level.
Key Features of the Act
1. Coverage and Entitlements
- Up to 75% of rural and 50% of urban population are covered.
- Beneficiaries receive 5 kg of food grains per person per month at subsidized prices – Rs. 3 for rice, Rs. 2 for wheat, and Rs. 1 for coarse grains.
2. Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS)
The Act relies on the existing TPDS to deliver food to eligible households through ration shops.
3. Nutritional Support
- Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to free meals and maternity benefits.
- Children aged 6 months to 14 years are entitled to free meals under ICDS and Mid-Day Meal schemes.
4. Grievance Redressal Mechanism
- The Act mandates the setting up of grievance redressal authorities at the district and state levels.
- Social audits and vigilance committees are also part of the monitoring mechanism.
Achievements
- Improved food access for millions of poor households.
- Strengthened public nutrition schemes like Mid-Day Meals and ICDS.
- Legal accountability for government agencies in food delivery.
Challenges
- Identification of genuine beneficiaries is sometimes faulty.
- Leakages and corruption in PDS still persist.
- Lack of adequate infrastructure and digitization in rural areas.
Conclusion
The National Food Security Act is a vital step towards ensuring the right to food and ending hunger in India. While it has made significant progress, continuous efforts are needed to improve implementation, reduce leakages, and ensure that no one is left behind in accessing their basic right to food.