The State of Nutrition Amongst the Marginalized Community of India: De-Coding NFHS-5

Abstract

Introduction: The nutritional status of marginalized communities, particularly Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), remains a critical concern in India. The National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) provides comprehensive data on health and nutritional indicators across demographic groups, highlighting persistent disparities. This review analyses the nutritional status of SCs and STs in India using NFHS-5 data, examining key health indicators such as stunting, wasting, anaemia, child mortality, and access to healthcare services.  Methodology: This review is based on a detailed analysis of NFHS-5 data, focusing on health and nutritional indicators relevant to SC and ST populations. Comparative analysis with national averages and across various states is conducted to identify regional disparities. Results: The analysis reveals significant disparities in nutritional and health indicators for SC and ST populations compared to national averages. Specifically, 40% of SC children and 45% of ST children are stunted, while 20% of SC children and 23% of ST children are wasted, compared to national averages of 35.5% and 19.3%. Anaemia among women is 59% for SCs and 65% for STs, against a national average of 57%. Infant mortality rates are 43 per 1,000 live births for SCs and 44 for STs, higher than the national average of 35. Access to improved drinking water and sanitation facilities is also lower for SCs (92% and 68%) and STs (83% and 60%) compared to national averages of 94% and 70%. Conclusion: NFHS-5 highlights significant nutritional and health disparities faced by SC and ST communities in India. The data emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to address malnutrition, improve healthcare access, and enhance living conditions for these marginalized groups.