In India, young girls grapple with a multifaceted nutritional landscape marked by both undernutrition and over nutrition, as well as prevalent micronutrient deficiencies, largely due to cereal-heavy diets. Nutrition plays a pivotal role in their growth, development, and academic performance, influencing long-term health and economic productivity. Adolescence, a nutritionally vulnerable period, sees increased nutrient demands for rapid growth, with dietary habits established during this time impacting future health. Micronutrient deficiencies such as anaemia, iodine deficiency disorders (IDD), and vitamin A deficiency disorders (VAD) are widespread, particularly affecting children and pregnant women.
Access to proper nutrition in India is hindered by factors such as food security and socio-economic status, with gender discrimination exacerbating disparities. Data from the National Family Health Survey 5 reveals higher child mortality rates and malnutrition among girls compared to boys. Despite government initiatives like food fortification and nutritional education, India continues to grapple with the highest global burden of anaemia and deficiencies in micronutrients like zinc, folate, vitamin B12, A, and D.
