Cultural Significance of Mealtime in Vaiphei Families and its Link to Food Security and Sustainable Development Goal 2

Among the Vaiphei community of Manipur, mealtime is not merely a routine act of consumption but a deeply embedded socio-cultural institution that reflects kinship solidarity, agricultural coordination, and survival strategies. Rooted in subsistence-based jhum cultivation, Vaiphei food practices are shaped by ecological uncertainty, seasonal variability, and limited infrastructural support. This study examines the cultural significance of mealtime within Vaiphei families and analyzes its relationship to household food security. Drawing on qualitative ethnographic methods, the paper situates indigenous food systems within the framework of Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger). It argues that culturally grounded food practices contribute to intra-household equity and resilience, yet structural vulnerabilities—such as climate variability and recurring ecological shocks like Mautam—pose persistent threats. The study concludes with policy recommendations specific to Manipur, emphasizing climate-resilient agriculture, institutional strengthening, and integration of indigenous knowledge into state-level food security strategies.