Malnourishment in India a gender problem. Do you agree? Discuss how gender discrimination is the key underlying cause of malnourishment in India.

Approach:

In the Introduction, throw insights on how malnourishment and gender problem is linked. Add the data MDPI which highlights the malnourishment and associated problem in women particular.

In the body of the answer compare and contrast various factors leading to malnourishment. Factors like cultural, political, social, economy can be added. Highlight how patriarchy is the root cause of gender inequality.

• Add NFHS data on malnourishment in India. Link poverty and malnourishment. Highlight the findings of GHI and India’s rank.
• Add the vicious cycle of gender inequality and deprivation of resources leading to feminization of poverty which then ultimately leads to poor nutritional status. Link how malnourishment leads to malnourished children and its effects on development of the Country
• Write about the schemes like ICDS, Poshan Maa, PoshyanAbhyaan and its effects on minimizing malnourishment.
• Add suggestions on the need for multi sectoral approach, integrated nutritional policy and schemes like MGNREGA, NHM, can actually help in curbing the menace of Malnourishment and associated effects.

In conclusion, make an emphasis on how minimizing malnourishment is imperative for achieving SDG’s. End the answer with a positive note on how empowering women will actually leads to reduction in Malnourishment.