From Rome to the world: 80 years of FAO's journey

World Food Day-2025 — Hand in hand for better foods and a better future

Date: October 16

Organised by: United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)

Established: 1945 (FAO); 1979 (World Food Day designated)

Why it matters: From Rome to the world

• Origin: World Food Day commemorates the founding of the FAO in 1945, the UN body that leads international efforts to defeat hunger.
• Adopted in 1979: The 20th FAO Conference declared October 16 as World Food Day, with more than 150 countries observing it annually.
• Objective: To raise global awareness about hunger, malnutrition and sustainable agriculture, and to mobilise action toward Zero Hunger (SDG 2).

Theme 2025: “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future”

• Core idea: Collective action and cooperation are essential for building resilient, equitable and sustainable food systems.
• FAO’s 80th anniversary: The 2025 theme also celebrates 80 years of FAO’s journey in advancing global food security.

Focus areas:

• Strengthening farmer-community partnerships
• Promoting nutrition-sensitive agriculture
• Reducing food loss and waste
• Encouraging climate-smart farming practices

Historical context for UPSC

• 1945: FAO founded in Quebec City, Canada, later moved to Rome, Italy — a key institution under the UN framework.
• 1979: World Food Day formally proposed by Hungary’s former Minister of Agriculture, Dr Pál Romány and adopted by FAO members.
• Legacy: The day has evolved into a global movement aligning with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Significance in today’s context

• The world produces enough food, yet over 700 million people face hunger — a paradox of plenty.
• Challenges include inequality, poor distribution, food waste, and climate change.

The day calls for:

• Policy reforms to ensure food access and affordability
• Support for small farmers and local food chains
• Fairer global trade and sustainable consumption
• Innovation in agri-tech and nutrition to build resilience

UPSC relevance

Prelims:

• FAO headquarters and year of establishment
• Theme of World Food Day 2025
• UN agencies related to food and agriculture (FAO, IFAD, WFP)
• Mains (GS Paper 3 – Agriculture/Environment):
• Role of FAO and UN agencies in global food governance
• India’s initiatives for food security — PDS, NFSA, POSHAN Abhiyaan, Millet Mission
• Sustainable agriculture and climate-resilient food systems

In essence

World Food Day is not just a celebration — it’s a global reminder that food is a fundamental right, not a privilege.

The 2025 theme urges the world to join hands — governments, farmers, businesses and citizens — for a healthier, fairer, and hunger-free future.