The bad news is that India continues to lead most countries in several malnutrition and mortality indicators. The latest UN report places India’s maternal mortality as highest in the world at 17% of global maternal mortality. The good news is that the BJP manifesto said that “extreme poverty and malnutrition will be treated as a national priority and will be addressed on mission mode” This has to be done, because our malnutrition dimensions have now reached a situation of alarm with more than 50% suffering from some form of malnutrition or micronutrient deficiency, resulting in suboptimal cognitive and physical development, low productivity and high health costs. Malnutrition in India is not a woman and child phenomenon, but a population problem. Data of underweight/stunting of children of both sexes, low body mass index and chronic energy deficiency of adolescent girls and boys, and adults, are worrisome, and not what an aspiring world power should have.

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