Pulses in Uttarakhand: Has Their Potential Been Tapped Enough to Attain Food and Nutritional Security?

Abstract

Background: Malnutrition is a global health crisis and Uttarakhand state is no exception. Besides the implementation of various government schemes for eradication of undernutrition is at very slow pace calls for analyzing the present situation and future prospects of food crops. In this regard, Uttarakhand a hilly state with many agricultural constraints needs special attention. Pulses known for rich protein and micronutrient content can serve as an excellent source for mitigating protein deficiency and attaining food and nutrition security. Various pulses in different cropping pattern are being grown in the state. The current study aims at exploring the dynamics, diversification and decomposition of pulses in Uttarakhand and their role in providing food and nutritional security. Methods: Secondary data related to area under pulses, production and yield were taken from official website of Agriculture department, Government of Uttarakhand. The data gaps were filled through linear interpolation. Production of total pulses was linearly extrapolated to estimate pulses production for 2035-36. Growth and instability, diversification and decomposition of pulses were analyzed. The Food and Nutritional security statistics were taken from directorate of Economics and Statistics, Government of Uttarakhand and explored in relation to pulses. Result: It was found that the state is faring well in production of pulses as an increase in absolute area, production, yield and proportion of pulses in gross sown area was observed. High pulse diversification was seen. However, a decline in all major pulse-based cropping systems was seen. Moreover, in the state, where 31% of the population lacks adequate protein intake, there is a pressing need to enhance the availability, accessibility and absorption of protein-rich pulses, particularly for vegetarians. Additionally, it is essential to reevaluate the state’s food and nutrition security status in alignment with the updated guidelines from ICMR-NIN in 2020.