Poverty and Food Security in the Hindu Kush Himalayan Region

Poverty alleviation remains a key agenda under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030, yet mountainous regions of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) continue to face significant challenges. This chapter analyses two decades of data to assess poverty trends at national and sub-national levels across HKH countries, highlighting persistent multidimensional poverty in mountain areas compared to plains. Food insecurity and vulnerability are pronounced, especially in Afghanistan, Nepal, Myanmar, and Pakistan. The chapter reviews major poverty alleviation programs in the region, drawing insights into what works and what does not in mountainous contexts. Findings reveal that while some countries—most notably China—have made significant progress, others show modest outcomes due to inadequate program design, poor targeting, and lack of mountain-specific adaptation. Notably, social protection schemes and improved food production have enhanced food security, and disaster management has reduced hunger-related mortality. However, poverty reduction efforts have largely been uneven. The chapter emphasizes the need for tailored, pro-poor policies that consider the unique cultural, geographic, and infrastructural realities of mountain communities. Context-specific approaches and inclusive program design are essential to ensure no mountain population is left behind in the fight against poverty.