Climate-induced food price volatility and household nutrition security in India: A systematic review of evidence from the last decade

Abstract

Climate change has emerged as a major driver of food systems instability, particularly in developing economies dependent on climate-sensitive agriculture. India, where a substantial proportion of households rely on agriculture for livelihood and food access, faces increasing vulnerability to climate-induced food price volatility. This systematic review synthesizes evidence published between 2015 and 2025 on the relationship between climate change, food price fluctuations, and household nutrition security in India. The review examines how extreme climatic events such as droughts, floods, erratic rainfall, and heatwaves affect agricultural production, disrupt supply chains, and increase food prices, thereby reducing household access to nutritious diets. Evidence from multiple Indian case studies indicates that poor and marginalized households are disproportionately affected through reduced dietary diversity, lower caloric intake, and increased malnutrition risks. The review further identifies adaptation strategies including climate-smart agriculture, public distribution systems, crop diversification, and social protection mechanisms. Significant research gaps remain regarding longitudinal nutrition outcomes, regional disparities, and integrated climate–nutrition policy frameworks. The findings emphasize the urgent need for resilient food systems and nutrition-sensitive climate policies in India.