(GIST OF KURUKSHETRA) Nutritional and Health Security through Horticulture

(FEBRUARY-2025)

Nutritional and Health Security through Horticulture

Context:

Despite numerous efforts, malnutrition continues to pose a significant public health issue in India. The Global Hunger Index indicates that one in every three children in India experiences stunted growth, with 15% of the population experiencing undernourishment. Tackling malnutrition necessitates a holistic strategy that guarantees nutritional security. Horticulture is vital in supplying key nutrients and enhancing overall health.

Horticulture for Nutritional Security

Horticultural products such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, folic acid, and dietary fiber.
These products improve the nutritional status of the population by elevating dietary quality.
Regular intake of horticultural products can assist in warding off nutrient deficiencies and chronic illnesses.

Food Security vs. Nutritional Security

Food security emphasizes sufficient food production and availability.
Nutritional security encompasses:
The biological utilization of food by the body.
Safe and varied diets equipped with essential nutrients.
Non-food elements like water, sanitation, and healthcare practices.
Realizing nutritional security requires transitioning from a focus on just food grain production to ensuring access to nutritious and safe food.

Horticulture Production in India

India has notably boosted horticulture production, achieving 353.19 million tonnes in 2023-2024.
This increase in production offers a chance to enhance food diversity and tackle malnutrition.
Promoting the cultivation and intake of horticultural products can close nutritional gaps in the Indian diet.

Dietary Recommendations

The ICMR-NIN dietary guidelines suggest:
400 grams of vegetables each day.
100 grams of fruits daily.
A diverse consumption of horticultural products ensures sufficient intake of vital nutrients and encourages better health.

Nutritional Value of Horticultural Crops

Horticultural products provide abundant sources of:
Dietary fiber (supports digestion and helps avoid obesity).
Vitamins and minerals (enhances immunity and prevents deficiencies).
Bioactive compounds (offers additional health benefits).
These products are low in calories and fats, making them a critical part of a healthy and balanced diet.

Nutraceuticals: Health Benefits Beyond Nutrition

Horticultural products contain nutraceuticals—bioactive substances that provide health advantages beyond basic nutrition.
These substances exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in:
Lowering the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart conditions.
Strengthening the immune system and enhancing overall well-being.

Improved Varieties of Horticultural Crops

Research and development initiatives have resulted in the creation of nutrient-rich crop types.
These varieties contribute to better dietary intake and enhance public health results.
Illustrations include high-iron spinach, carrot varieties rich in vitamin A, and biofortified staple crops.

Biofortification: Enhancing Nutritional Content

Biofortification involves breeding crops to contain elevated levels of essential nutrients.
Significant initiatives include:
Iron-fortified beans and rice.
Sweet potatoes and maize rich in vitamin A.
Zinc-fortified wheat and rice.
These efforts assist in combating hidden hunger and deficiencies in micronutrients.

Nutritional Gardens: A Sustainable Approach

Nutritional gardens advocate for homegrown fruits and vegetables to improve dietary intake.
Advantages encompass:
Enhanced household food security.
An economical supply of fresh, nutrient-dense food.
Promotion of sustainable agricultural practices and self-reliance in rural areas.

Horticulture Extension Programs

Extension initiatives educate farmers about:
Improved farming techniques.
The significance of nutrient-rich horticultural products.
These initiatives also encourage local consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Increased awareness can lead to greater production and improved nutritional outcomes.

Conclusion

While malnutrition is a persistent issue in India, horticulture provides a practical solution to bolster nutritional security. Innovations like biofortification, enhanced crop varieties, and nutraceuticals can further fortify the role of horticulture in advancing nutrition.