India reaffirms commitment to food security and poverty eradication at UN
- In Reports
- 12:26 PM, Oct 18, 2024
- Myind Staff
India highlighted its continued commitment to ensuring food security and addressing poverty at the United Nations, emphasising that 250 million people have been lifted out of poverty through various government initiatives. India's First Secretary to the UN, Sneha Dubey, delivered the country's statement during the General Discussion of the Second Committee on Eradication of Poverty, Agriculture Development, Food Security, and Nutrition.
Dubey credited India's achievements to targeted policy interventions aimed at empowering marginalised and vulnerable communities. “In India, 250 million people have been lifted out of poverty, and the government of India has crafted targeted policy interventions to empower the marginalised and vulnerable sections of society,” she said. She further noted that the gender gap is beginning to close and the skilling of youth has become a priority.
Addressing global poverty trends, Dubey acknowledged the increase in poverty levels worldwide and the rise in multidimensional poverty in recent years. She also emphasised the role of technology in India's development efforts, stating, "India has ensured inclusive, integrated, and equitable development by deploying Digital Public Infrastructure."
On the topic of food security, Dubey reiterated India’s commitment, saying, "India remains committed to ensuring food security for its vast population through various initiatives: National Food Security Act, Digital Agriculture Mission, PM POSHAN." She also noted India's leadership in promoting the nutritional value of millets, especially through the commemoration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets.
Additionally, Dubey highlighted India’s global efforts in poverty eradication, noting that the country is a founding member of the Alliance of Poverty Eradication. This alliance seeks to address global poverty using a multidimensional approach.
Notably, on December 19, 2023, the United Nations General Assembly adopted several resolutions from the Second Committee, which addressed key issues such as Agriculture Development, Food Security, Nutrition, Eradicating Rural Poverty, Agricultural Technology for Sustainable Development, Combating Sand and Dust Storms, and Natural Plant Fibres.
The resolution on agriculture development and food security emphasised the urgent need for concerted global action to end hunger and malnutrition. It expressed concern that since the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of people facing hunger has increased by 122 million globally.
Through these efforts, India continues to play a significant role in the global fight against poverty and hunger while ensuring the well-being of its vast population.
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