Performance of vulnerable group development towards food security

Abstract

Bangladesh has a wide range of social safety net programs. Despite that, there are several concerns on the delivery of the various social safety net programs with respect to their predesigned goal and objectives, especially in enhancing food security. Therefore, the need to establish research based facts on their performance towards food security. The present study focused on determining the performance of Vulnerable Group Development (VGD) program towards food security in Rangpur district, Rangpur division. Descriptive research design was adopted in the study. The 50 respondents were selected using disproportionate random sampling technique. Interview schedule and focus group discussions were conducted on the selected beneficiaries of VGD program to generate the required data. Descriptive statistics in the form of frequency and percent were used in the data analysis and presentation. Results revealed that majority of the respondents fall within 31-50 years, illiterate (85.0%), have small land holdings (≤ 15 decimal), medium family size (3-5 members) and face absolute poverty. The performance of VGD towards food security was mostly reported satisfactory in terms of food availability, access and stability, but poor in terms of utilization. The major problems faced in VGD program include inadequate provision and untimely distribution of food. Hence, strengthening of administrative structures, proper monitoring and evaluation, and improving the quality of provisions of the VGD program would go a long way in ensuring food security through the program.