1976 - Food and Work For All | Commemorative Coin

The year 1976 saw the release of the commemorative coin under the development-oriented FAO series, with the theme ‘Food and Work for All.’ 

The year 1976 marked an important chapter in India’s nation-building journey as the country emphasized the theme “Food and Work for All.” Emerging from a period defined by economic challenges, population growth, and the need for stronger rural support systems, this theme reflected India’s commitment to securing two essential pillars of human dignity—nutrition and livelihood.

In the decades following independence, India faced the pressing task of ensuring food security for a rapidly expanding population. The Green Revolution had begun to reshape the agricultural landscape, introducing high-yield crops and improved farming techniques. Yet, the benefits were still uneven across regions, and achieving consistent food availability remained a national priority. The message of “Food for All” therefore symbolized the country’s ongoing efforts to build a resilient agricultural sector capable of feeding every citizen.

Parallel to this, the call for “Work for All” highlighted the importance of employment as a driver of social and economic stability. With a large rural workforce and rising urban migration, India recognized the need to create sustainable livelihoods through development programs, public works, and skill-building initiatives. Ensuring gainful employment was not only an economic objective but also a means to uplift communities, reduce poverty, and foster self-reliance.

The theme “Food and Work for All” reflected India’s holistic approach to development—one that understood the deep interconnection between adequate nourishment, productive labor, and overall national progress. It emphasized that a nation could only move forward when its citizens were both well-fed and meaningfully employed.

This period also aligned with broader international conversations on food security and equitable development. India’s participation in these global dialogues reinforced its role as a nation striving to balance agricultural growth, industrial expansion, and social welfare.

The theme of “Food and Work for All” remains timeless, symbolizing India’s enduring pursuit of a society where every individual has access to basic sustenance and dignified employment. It stands as a reminder of the nation’s determination to build an equitable future rooted in opportunity, resilience, and shared prosperity.