Asian Journal of Geographical Research

Food security remains a major development challenge in India due to considerable regional disparities in agricultural production, socio-economic conditions, nutritional outcomes, and access to basic services. This study evaluates the spatial distribution of food security across the 28 States and 8 Union Territories of India by developing a Composite Food Security Index (CFSI). Fourteen indicators representing the four dimensions of food security—availability, accessibility, utilisation, and stability—were compiled from nationally recognised secondary data sources. The indicators were normalised using the Min–Max method, and an equal-weight approach was applied to construct the composite index. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were used to map the spatial distribution of food security, while Local Moran's I (LISA), Getis–Ord Gi* hotspot analysis, and hierarchical cluster analysis were employed to identify spatial clusters, statistically significant hotspots and coldspots, and groups of states with similar food security characteristics. The CFSI values ranged from 0.344 to 0.762, indicating substantial regional variation. Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi recorded the highest levels of food security, whereas Assam, Jharkhand, Lakshadweep, and Manipur ranked among the lowest. The spatial analyses revealed a concentration of high food security in north-western India and relatively low food security across several eastern and north-eastern states. Cluster analysis further classified the States and Union Territories into four distinct groups, reflecting varying levels of food security performance. The findings highlight that food security in India is shaped by the combined influence of agricultural productivity, economic access, nutritional status, and system stability rather than food availability alone. The study demonstrates the usefulness of integrating composite indices with spatial analytical techniques for identifying regional disparities and priority areas. The results provide evidence to support region-specific policy interventions aimed at reducing inequalities, strengthening food security, and advancing the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger).