Household Food Insecurity and Its Associated Factors in Punjab, India

Abstract

Aims: This study was conducted to assess the household food security status and food consumption patterns of families in Punjab, India, and to determine the impact of socio-economic characteristics on their household food security status. Study Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a multistage random sampling technique. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the state of Punjab, located in the north-western region of India. It covered all phases of the research process, including planning, tool development, data collection, and statistical analysis. The entire study was carried out over a one-year period from January to December 2021. Methodology: A total of 480 families were randomly selected from the three regions using multistage random sampling. Data on socio-economic characteristics were collected through personal interviews using a pre-structured schedule. The USDA 18-item Food Security Module was employed to assess household food security status. Results: The findings revealed that 77% of households were food insecure, with 24% facing severe hunger. Most respondents (61%) belonged to the upper-lower socio-economic class, and 47% had a monthly income between Rs. 3,908–Rs. 11,707. Nuclear families (80%) and small-sized families (≤4 members) were more prevalent. Significant associations (P<0.01) were observed between food security and variables such as family size, type, income, socio-economic class, and food expenditure. Multiple regression analysis showed that income, food expenditure, socio-economic status, and food consumption explained 60.6% (R²=0.606, P<0.01) of the variation in food security. Strong correlations were also found between income and food security (r = 0.764), and food expenditure (r=0.709). Conclusions: The study highlights the critical role of socio-economic factors in determining household food security and underscores the need for stronger, long-term government interventions to address food insecurity among underprivileged groups in Punjab. Household food insecurity was found to be significantly associated with income, socio-economic status, and food expenditure. Strengthening targeted nutrition policies, improving livelihood opportunities, and enhancing access to diverse, affordable foods are essential to mitigate food insecurity and its nutritional consequences.