Evaluating food security and nutritional pathways of rural farm families: Empirical evidence from northeast India

The study aimed to ascertain a relationship between agricultural status, socioeconomic factors, and nutrition of farm families. The study was conducted in selected villages in the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya, using Stratified Random Sampling (St. RS). Using pretested interview schedules, we collected primary data from respondents in 2020 and 2021, focusing on socioeconomic variables, body mass index, and income from agriculture and related sectors. The data was analysed using correlation analyses and separate combined regression estimates for each year and month were obtained. Results from the study indicate that agricultural income significantly influenced nutritional status (p < 0.05) and household income growth was also found significant. The region's agricultural production of cereals, pulses, and vegetables was insufficient, as was the production of meat and meat products, milk, and milk products. Hence, expenditure towards purchasing the above food groups from the market was found to be significant (p < 0.05). Therefore, the markets near the mainland especially in the hilly region play a crucial role in the nutritional pathway of rural farm families.