What are the key determinants of malnutrition among under-five children in the country? Also, elaborate on the role of nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive interventions in addressing this issue.

Malnutrition is the deficiency of essential nutrients, protein and calories for growth of human body. Key determinants used by NFHS for mal-nutrition: C Wasting: low weight to age. B Stunting: low height to age. B Under-nourishment: lack of iron, micro-nutrients, etc in diet. (4) Anemia: more than 40% children are anemic i.e. deficiency of iron.

Nutrition-specific interventions & Nutrition-sensitive interventions [Diagram showing connections to Health checkups & surveys NFHS] Their role in addressing the issue: (1) Improvement in last 10 years: 2015: Stunting 16%, Wasting 35%, Under-nourishment 30% 2024: Stunting 8%, Wasting 16%, Under-nourishment 12% (2) Protein-rich diet in schools: eg pulses, Golden Rice, eggs, milk, etc. (3) Public awareness generation program: 'Health is wealth', 'Fit for India', 'LIFE Mission'. (4) Comprehensive framework including mental health - Happiness curriculum in Delhi schools.

Limitation of these interventions: a Urban-rural divide: mal-nutrition more pronounced in rural areas. b Migrant labourers: not accounted and involved in these programmes. c Social restrictions: egg, meat not in Northern States. d Still high burden of malnutrition. Way-Forward: a Introduction of millets in MOM and PDS system: super-food. b Targeted approach: identify and decentralized implementation. c Posham 2D and Lakshmi Arsunwudi should be resource-wise enhanced. d Prioritization under SDG No 1 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 2 (No Poverty).