Q.13. Discuss the provisions of National Food Security Act, 2013. What reforms are required to strengthen the food security? Explain.

The National Food Security Act, 2013 (NFSA) is a landmark legislation in India aimed at ensuring food and nutritional security for its citizens. Let’s delve into its provisions and explore the necessary reforms to strengthen food security:

Provisions of the National Food Security Act, 2013:

1. Legal Entitlements:
   • The NFSA legally entitles eligible households to receive highly subsidized foodgrains through the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS).
   • Approximately 75% of the rural population and 50% of the urban population are covered under the Act.
2. Categories of Beneficiaries:
   • The Act classifies beneficiaries into two categories:
     • Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households: The poorest of the poor, who receive an even higher quantity of subsidized foodgrains.
     • Priority Households (PHH): Other eligible households.
3. Foodgrain Entitlement:
   • Each eligible person is entitled to receive 5 kg of foodgrains per month (rice, wheat, or coarse grains) at highly subsidized prices.
   • Pregnant women and lactating mothers receive additional nutritional support.
4. Maternity Entitlements:
   • Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to a cash maternity benefit of not less than Rs. 6,000.
   • This aims to compensate for wage loss during pregnancy and supplement nutrition.
5. Life-Cycle Approach:
   • The Act recognizes a life-cycle approach by providing special provisions for pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children.
   • Nutritious meals are provided through Anganwadi Centres (under the Integrated Child Development Services) and schools (under the Mid-Day Meal scheme).
6. Women Empowerment:
   • The eldest woman (aged 18 years or above) in the household is mandated to be the head for issuing ration cards under the Act.

Reforms to Strengthen Food Security:

1. Effective Implementation:
   • Streamline the identification of eligible beneficiaries to ensure that deserving households receive benefits.
   • Address issues related to fake/duplicate ration cards and exclusion/inclusion errors.
2. Nutritional Quality Enhancement:
   • Focus on the quality of foodgrains provided, including fortified grains to address malnutrition.
   • Promote diversified diets and micronutrient-rich foods.
3. Technology Integration:
   • Use technology for efficient targeting, monitoring, and grievance redressal.
   • Implement Aadhaar-based authentication to prevent leakages and ensure transparency.
4. Strengthening Supply Chain:
   • Improve storage facilities, transportation, and last-mile delivery to prevent foodgrain wastage.
   • Enhance the efficiency of the TPDS.
5. Climate-Resilient Agriculture:
   • Invest in climate-smart agriculture to ensure food security in the face of climate change.
   • Promote sustainable farming practices and crop diversification.
6. Community Participation:
   • Involve local communities, self-help groups, and civil society organizations in monitoring and implementation.
   • Raise awareness about entitlements and rights.

In summary, the NFSA is a crucial step towards ensuring food security, but reforms are needed to enhance its effectiveness, nutritional impact, and reach to vulnerable populations.