Mapping the Food Security Situation in Rural Bihar and Jharkhand: Insights from Two Food Security Atlases

Abstract

The paper draws from the district-level food security atlases of rural Bihar and Jharkhand prepared by the Institute for Human Development (IHD). The atlases explore the dimensions and approach to measuring food security as well as the linkages with the component indicators. Food availability, access to food, and utilization of food are the three dimensions that have been delved into in detail. It identifies the ‘priority indicators’ and ‘priority districts’ which are the most food-insecure regions in both the states. The government programmes relevant to food insecurity have been briefly analysed and policy interventions have been suggested to improve the food security situation, especially in the food insecure regions of the two states. Female literacy rate, dependency ratio, disease and health behaviour, access to toilet facilities, availability of non-agricultural employment opportunities, and extent of irrigation have emerged as crucial policy variables for overall food security in Bihar. On the other hand, in Jharkhand, the value of agricultural output, availability of health institutions, and dependency ratio have emerged as priority indicators related to food security. Special welfare programmes targeted at vulnerable communities and food-insecure regions are suggested in both states to tackle food insecurity. There is also an imperative need to increase the availability and accessibility of health institutions in both states. At the same time, an increase in agricultural productivity by enhancing irrigation coverage is a crucial aspect, common for both states. An increase in dietary diversity through community and individual kitchen gardens is also suggested for improving the status of malnourishment in rural areas of Bihar and Jharkhand.