Malnourished nation

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A staggering 22% of the population grapples with acute food insecurity. Despite some strides, the nation continues to face formidable challenges in ensuring that its citizens have access to adequate nutrition. High food prices and diminishing livelihood opportunities as a result of depreciating socio-economic conditions and climatic shocks have exacerbated this crisis, leaving millions vulnerable.

While this alarming situation is expected to see some improvement post-harvest, according to the latest bulletin from the Ministry of National Health Services, the anticipated relief is far from a long-term solution. The root causes - economic instability, climate change impacts, systemic inefficiencies and social inequalities - require a more comprehensive strategy to achieve sustainable progress. Pakistan's struggle with malnutrition is not new. Over 40% of children under five are stunted, 17.7% are wasted and 28.9% are underweight. These figures translate to a generation at risk, with long-term implications for the country's human capital. Moreover, deficiencies in essential nutrients like iron, zinc and vitamins A and D affect more than half the child population. The National Nutrition Survey of 2018 had already flagged the persistently high rates of under-nutrition, alongside an emerging trend of obesity.

Considering this, meeting the Sustainable Development Goals on food security and nutrition by 2030 seems increasingly out of reach. The path forward demands an integrated approach, addressing both immediate nutritional needs and the structural factors that perpetuate food insecurity. Agricultural reforms must prioritise resilience, ensuring food systems can withstand the growing frequency of climate-related disruptions. Meanwhile, social protection programmes should be expanded to provide a safety net for the most vulnerable, particularly in times of economic hardship. A well-nourished population is foundational to a productive, prosperous and resilient nation. Crucially, the government must recognise that food security is a matter of national importance.