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(GIST OF KURUKSHETRA) Nutritional and Health Security through Horticulture
(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
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Horticultural products such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, folic acid, and dietary fiber.
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These products improve the nutritional status of the population by elevating dietary quality.
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Regular intake of horticultural products can assist in warding off nutrient deficiencies and chronic illnesses.
Food Security vs. Nutritional Security
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Food security emphasizes sufficient food production and availability.
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Nutritional security encompasses:
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The biological utilization of food by the body.
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Safe and varied diets equipped with essential nutrients.
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Non-food elements like water, sanitation, and healthcare practices.
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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
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India has notably boosted horticulture production, achieving 353.19 million tonnes in 2023-2024.
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This increase in production offers a chance to enhance food diversity and tackle malnutrition.
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Promoting the cultivation and intake of horticultural products can close nutritional gaps in the Indian diet.
Dietary Recommendations
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The ICMR-NIN dietary guidelines suggest:
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400 grams of vegetables each day.
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100 grams of fruits daily.
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A diverse consumption of horticultural products ensures sufficient intake of vital nutrients and encourages better health.
Nutritional Value of Horticultural Crops
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Horticultural products provide abundant sources of:
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Dietary fiber (supports digestion and helps avoid obesity).
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Vitamins and minerals (enhances immunity and prevents deficiencies).
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Bioactive compounds (offers additional health benefits).
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These products are low in calories and fats, making them a critical part of a healthy and balanced diet.
Nutraceuticals: Health Benefits Beyond Nutrition
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Horticultural products contain nutraceuticals—bioactive substances that provide health advantages beyond basic nutrition.
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These substances exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in:
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Lowering the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart conditions.
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Strengthening the immune system and enhancing overall well-being.
Improved Varieties of Horticultural Crops
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Research and development initiatives have resulted in the creation of nutrient-rich crop types.
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These varieties contribute to better dietary intake and enhance public health results.
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Illustrations include high-iron spinach, carrot varieties rich in vitamin A, and biofortified staple crops.
Biofortification: Enhancing Nutritional Content
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Biofortification involves breeding crops to contain elevated levels of essential nutrients.
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Significant initiatives include:
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Iron-fortified beans and rice.
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Sweet potatoes and maize rich in vitamin A.
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Zinc-fortified wheat and rice.
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These efforts assist in combating hidden hunger and deficiencies in micronutrients.
Nutritional Gardens: A Sustainable Approach
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Nutritional gardens advocate for homegrown fruits and vegetables to improve dietary intake.
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Advantages encompass:
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Enhanced household food security.
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An economical supply of fresh, nutrient-dense food.
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Promotion of sustainable agricultural practices and self-reliance in rural areas.
Horticulture Extension Programs
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Extension initiatives educate farmers about:
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Improved farming techniques.
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The significance of nutrient-rich horticultural products.
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These initiatives also encourage local consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables.
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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.
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Courtesy: Kurukshetra