GOVERNMENTAL STRATEGIES TO MAINTAIN BALANCE BETWEEN FOOD SECURITY AND POPULATION GROWTH (A Quantitative Analysis of Pre and Post Covid Situation of Pakistan)

Abstract

In this paper we present the assessment of the impact of COVID-19 on food systems with a strong focus on food security and nutrition for those affected in Pakistan. The research methodology is divided into two phases; first, a quantitative assessment was conducted to give a theoretical view of national food security, an empiricist study design using data from Pakistan's 1972-2019 time series was tested on the ARDL model to assess Pakistan's food insecurity. Second, qualitative interpretation is given to the impact and effects of Covid-19 on Pakistan’s Economic growth and food insecurity. The results of ARDL appear to support the view that population growth is affecting crops and food production leading to food insecurity. It means that Pakistan needs to expand agricultural land if it is to meet the growing demand for food in Pakistan. Natural disasters, population growth, exports and agricultural imports, low agricultural development, food prices, income inequality, poverty and health issues are the main causes of food insecurity in the country.