On World Food Day, the Asia-Pacific region faces multiple challenges to reach its most disadvantaged and malnourished.

When I began voluntary work in Pakistan’s arid region of Tharparkar in February 1985, perhaps the first reason I became enduringly engaged with the area was the ultra thin, emaciated infants in the laps and arms of underfed teenage mothers. Though their eyes cast a spell, their faces were grim and gaunt.