The Indian Government has recently unveiled ‘Aahaar Kranti’, an ambitious mission aimed at fostering awareness about nutrition. This initiative arrives in response to the pressing issues of widespread hunger and disease, both in India and globally.
About Aahaar Kranti: A New Attitude Towards Nutrition
‘Aahaar Kranti’ represents a radical shift in the way we perceive food and diet. The initiative aims to illuminate the immense value of India’s traditional diet, as well as the extraordinary benefits of local fruits and vegetables, and the healing power of a balanced diet.
Organisations Involved: A Collective Effort
This mission is a result of collaboration between multiple entities. Pravasi Bharatiya Academic and Scientific Sampark (PRABHASS), Global Indian Scientists and Technocrats’ Forum (GIST), Vijnana Bharati (Vibha) and Vigyan Prasar (an autonomous body of the Department of Science and Technology) have jointly launched ‘Aahaar Kranti’. The initiative operates under the motto “Uttam Aahaar- Uttam Vichaar”, translating to “Good Diet-Good Cognition”.
Implementation Strategy: Spreading the Message
The primary objective of ‘Aahaar Kranti’s’ implementation strategy is to widely disseminate dietary information. The messages will be delivered in various forms: clear-cut ‘what’s and ‘why’s of nutrition, game-based learning, or straightforward instructions like ‘how to’.
The content will be accessible both online and offline, in all regional languages as well as English and Hindi. The program places significant emphasis on teacher training, foreseeing that they can then pass on the knowledge to their students, who in turn, can spread the same to their families and ultimately, society at large.
Significance and Global Relevance
This initiative coincides with the designation of 2021 as the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables by the United Nations (UN). It aligns with UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 3, which underscores the importance of human well-being. Furthermore, ‘Aahaar Kranti’ sets to put the wisdom of Ayurveda-based nutrition into practical use.
India’s Rank on the Global Hunger Index
In the Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2020, India has been ranked 94 among 107 countries. Scoring 27.2 points, the country’s situation is classified as “serious”.
Performance Indicators: A Closer Look
The current state of undernourishment stands at 14% of India’s population for the period of 2017-19, a slight improvement from 16.3% between 2011-13. Child wasting is recorded at 17.3% (2015-19), showing a rise compared to 15.1% in 2010-14. Fortunately, child stunting has seen significant improvement, dropping to less than 35% from 54% in 2000. Child mortality has also decreased from 5.2% in 2012 to 3.7%.
