Hunger in Focus

World Food Day was proclaimed in 1979 by the Conference of the Food Agriculture Organisation. It marks the date of founding of FAO in 1945. The aim of the day is to heighten public awareness of the world food problem and strengthen solidarity i n the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty.

In 1980 the General Assembly endorsed observarance of the day in consideration of the fact that “ food is a requisite for human survival and well being fundamental human necessity. Since 1981, world Food Day has adopted a different theme each year in order to highlight areas needed for action and provide a common focus. Most of the themes revolve around agriculture because only investment in agriculture together with support for education and health will turn this situation around.

In spite of the importance of agriculture, the driving force in the economies of many developing countries, this vital system is frequently starved of investment. In particular foreign aid to agriculture has shown marked decline over the past 20years. It is a bitter truth that millions of people still go to bed hungry. Some countries and regions are making progress but still there is hunger crisis.

In order to end world food crisis the governments have to have the political will to make international trade more fair. Education, that also preliminary, basic as well as vocational can act as a very powerful measure in combating food crisis. It is saddening to see that the producers or farmers who are the food grain bearers do not even have the access to basic amenities of life. Forget about sending their children to proper schools. To overcome this critical situation, public as well as private sectors should come together and do sincere planning & investment and work toward the betterment of one & all’s condition and environment.

Students' Oxygen movement view

16/10/2011