The widespread deaths due to starvation and epidemics are the characteristics of

Widespread deaths resulting from starvation and epidemics are the defining characteristics of a famine. A famine is a severe social and economic crisis involving mass mortality within a short period [2]. It typically begins with food shortages that drive prices up, leading to starvation when people can no longer afford staples [1]. This starvation weakens body resistance, making populations highly susceptible to epidemics caused by the use of contaminated water or decaying food [3]. For instance, the 1943 Bengal Famine resulted in millions of deaths due to the combined effects of starvation and diseases like malaria and cholera [4]. Unlike chronic malnutrition or poverty, which are persistent conditions, famine is an acute episode of extreme hunger and excess mortality. International standards define famine when specific thresholds for food insecurity, acute malnutrition, and daily death rates from starvation or disease are met [1].

Sources

1. [2] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 8: Natural Hazards and Disaster Management > famines > p. 81
2. [1] Economics, Class IX . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 4: Food Security in India > Why food security? > p. 42
3. [3] Economics, Class IX . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 4: Food Security in India > Why food security? > p. 43
4. [4] Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 23: Quit India Movement, Demand for Pakistan, and the INA > Famine of 1943 > p. 453