Legal Framework for Food Security in India: A Conceptual and Historical Perspective

To ensure food security, all individuals must have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food at all times. This has become a central issue in India due to the country’s persistent challenges in addressing food insecurity. This paper examines the legal framework for food security in India from both conceptual and historical perspectives. It traces the evolution of food security policies, analyzing the socio-economic, political, and environmental factors shaping food production, access, and distribution. By reviewing the impact of colonial rule, post-independence economic policies, and the development of the Public Distribution System (PDS), the paper critically assesses India’s food security trajectory. It also explores the role of international organizations and legal frameworks, culminating in the enactment of the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013. The paper concludes by discussing ongoing challenges, including malnutrition, inefficiencies in food distribution, and the legal obligations of the Indian state under both the Constitution and international law.