Why are 74.1% of Indians unable to afford a healthy diet

There are several underlying reasons why 74.1% of Indians are unable to afford a healthy diet: 1. Poverty: A large percentage of the Indian population lives in poverty, which restricts their access to nutritious food. High levels of income inequality make it difficult for many people to afford a balanced diet. 2. Inflation: Rising food prices and inflation make it even more challenging for individuals to purchase nutritious food. The cost of essential food items has been increasing at a faster rate than income, making it unaffordable for many. 3. Lack of agricultural infrastructure: India's agricultural infrastructure faces various challenges, such as inadequate irrigation systems, poor storage facilities, and limited access to advanced farming techniques. These factors can contribute to low crop yields and higher prices, making nutritious foods more expensive. 4. Limited market competition: A lack of competition in the food market can lead to monopolies and higher prices. Limited options and high prices make it difficult for individuals to access a variety of affordable nutritious foods. 5. Poor distribution systems: Inefficient distribution systems, including transportation and logistics, can lead to high food wastage and increased costs. This ultimately affects affordability for consumers. 6. Dietary preferences and cultural factors: Some cultural factors and dietary preferences can contribute to the affordability issue. For example, a preference for rice and wheat, which are cheaper staples, over diverse and nutrient-rich foods can impact the overall affordability of a healthy diet. Addressing these underlying factors requires a multi-faceted approach, including investing in agricultural infrastructure, promoting market competition, implementing effective distribution systems, and addressing poverty and income inequality.