Why in news
A study found that 77% of children in India (aged 6-23 months) lack a diverse diet, which is crucial for healthy growth.
The central region of India shows the highest prevalence of minimum dietary diversity failure.
The study highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring children in India get a balanced and nutritious diet.
Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD)
MDD is a measure used by the World Health Organization (WHO) to evaluate the quality of a child's diet.
A diverse diet is one that includes 5 or more food groups, such as:
Breastmilk; Eggs; Legumes and nuts; Fruits and vegetables; and Flesh foods (meat, fish, poultry)
A child’s diet is considered inadequate if it lacks diversity and does not include these food groups.
Key Highlights of the Study
Prevalence of Minimum Dietary Diversity Failure:
Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra report the highest levels of inadequate diets (over 80%).
Sikkim and Meghalaya show better results (under 50%).
Improvements:
Egg consumption has increased from 5% in 2005-06 to 17% in 2019-21.
Legumes and nuts intake increased from 14% to 17%.
Vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables and general fruits and vegetables consumption increased by 7.3% and 13%, respectively.
Flesh foods increased by 4%.
Declines:
Breastmilk and dairy products consumption slightly decreased, from 87% to 85% and 54% to 52%, respectively.
Children of illiterate mothers, rural residents, and those with low birth weight or anemia are more likely to have poor dietary diversity.
Way Forward
Improve the Public Distribution System (PDS) to ensure better access to diverse, nutritious food.
Strengthen and expand the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) program to reach more children.
Use social media and nutrition counseling to raise awareness and educate families, especially in rural areas.
Local self-governance initiatives can be leveraged for better community-level engagement and support.
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