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Child Malnutrition Along Caste Lines

Context

A recent research study highlights the paradox of higher child stunting rates in India compared to sub-Saharan Africa, revealing that this discrepancy largely disappears when chronic malnutrition is analyzed along caste lines. This study challenges previous assumptions about India's nutrition status and underscores the significant disparities within the country.

Key Findings of the Report

Stunting Rates: The study found that children from historically marginalized communities, such as Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), are 50% more likely to experience stunting than those from forward castes. The overall stunting rate in India is 36%, compared to an average of 34% in 19 sub-Saharan African countries.
Comparative Analysis: Children from forward castes have a stunting rate of 27%, which is lower than both the average in sub-Saharan Africa and the overall rate in India. This suggests that when analyzing stunting, the intra-country disparities are more pronounced than the international comparison.
Hidden Divide: The research indicates a "hidden divide" in nutrition outcomes within India, which is often overlooked in broader comparisons. The gaps in child malnutrition are primarily borne by stigmatised caste groups, revealing the need for a more nuanced understanding of malnutrition in the country.

Fact Box:

Wasting is defined as low weight-for-height. It often indicates recent and severe weight loss, although it can also persist for a long time. It usually occurs when a person has not had food of adequate quality and quantity and/or they have had frequent or prolonged illnesses.
Stunting refers to a child who is too short for his or her age and is the result of chronic or recurrent malnutrition.
Malnutrition refers to deficiencies, excesses or imbalances in a person’s intake of energy and/or nutrients. The term malnutrition covers two broad groups of conditions.
- ‘Undernutrition’—which includes stunting (low height for age), wasting (low weight for height), underweight (low weight for age) and micronutrient deficiencies or insufficiencies (a lack of important vitamins and minerals).
- Overweight, obesity and diet-related non-communicable diseases (such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer).

Indian Government Initiatives for Related Issues

National Nutrition Mission (POSHAN Abhiyaan): Launched in 2018, this program aims to reduce stunting, under-nutrition, and low birth weight through a multi-sectoral approach. It focuses on improving the nutritional status of children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.
Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): This program provides food, preschool education, and primary healthcare to children under 6 years of age and their mothers. It aims to combat child malnutrition and promote health.
Mid-Day Meal Scheme: This initiative provides free lunches to school children, aiming to improve nutritional levels and encourage school attendance, particularly in marginalized communities.
Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): This maternity benefit scheme supports pregnant women and lactating mothers by providing cash incentives, encouraging better nutritional practices and healthcare during pregnancy and early infancy.

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GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

30th October 2024 (10 Topics)

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Child Malnutrition Along Caste Lines

Key Findings of the Report

Fact Box:

Still Have Questions?

GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

Child Malnutrition Along Caste Lines

Key Findings of the Report

Fact Box:

Still Have Questions?

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