PROGRESS AND PARADOXES; FOOD SECURITY IN PUNJAB, PAKISTAN BY 2025, A PUBLIC HEALTH ASSESSMENT.

Abstract

Food security remains a critical public health concern in Punjab, Pakistan, despite the province’s significant agricultural production and economic importance. This assessment examines the progress and persistent paradoxes in food security in Punjab by 2025, focusing on food availability, accessibility, utilization, affordability, and stability. While Punjab contributes substantially to national food production, millions of households continue to experience food insecurity due to poverty, inflation, unemployment, unequal resource distribution, and limited access to nutritious foods. Climate change, water scarcity, floods, droughts, and agricultural disruptions further threaten the stability of food systems. The assessment highlights a paradox in which increased agricultural productivity does not necessarily translate into improved household nutrition or equitable food access. Public health outcomes are also affected, as food insecurity contributes to malnutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, obesity, and diet-related chronic diseases. Existing government initiatives, social protection programs, agricultural policies, and nutrition interventions have contributed to progress, but implementation gaps and socioeconomic inequalities remain significant challenges. Addressing food insecurity requires an integrated, multisectoral approach involving health, agriculture, education, social protection, and environmental sectors. Strengthening local food systems, improving affordability of nutritious diets, enhancing climate resilience, and targeting vulnerable populations are essential for achieving sustainable food security and better public health outcomes in Punjab.