New Delhi, Aug 27: The latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6) has reported a decline in the prevalence of stunting among children below five years in India, although the condition continues to affect a significant proportion of children in several states.According to figures cited in the report, the national stunting rate has declined to 29.3 per cent in NFHS-6 from 35.5 per cent recorded in NFHS-5.
Despite the improvement, Bihar, Jharkhand, Gujarat and several other states continue to report relatively high levels of stunting among young children.Bihar recorded a stunting rate of 35.6 per cent, while the figure for Gujarat stood at 35.3 per cent and Jharkhand at 35 per cent. Meghalaya reported a rate of 36.8 per cent, while the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli recorded 37.1 per cent, according to the data cited.Uttar Pradesh also showed improvement, though 31.5 per cent of children below five years were reported to be stunted.
Madhya Pradesh recorded a decline from 35.7 per cent in NFHS-5 to 31.4 per cent in NFHS-6. However, significant differences were reported among districts and between rural and urban areas.Experts said inadequate nutrition, repeated illnesses and deficiencies of essential nutrients can affect children’s physical growth.
They also highlighted the importance of adequate protein, calcium, vitamin D, zinc and other nutrients during pregnancy and early childhood.
Zinc deficiency was identified as one of the factors that may contribute to impaired growth, although experts stressed that it is not the sole cause of stunting. Genetic factors, maternal nutrition and other health conditions can also influence a child’s growth.
The report also highlighted the importance of improving dietary practices at the household level. Experts have called for greater awareness among families, particularly regarding nutritious diets for pregnant women and young children.
Several states have recorded substantial improvements. West Bengal’s stunting rate reportedly declined from 33.8 per cent in NFHS-5 to 22.4 per cent, while Karnataka’s rate fell from 35.4 per cent to 26.5 per cent. Telangana also recorded a decline from 33.1 per cent to 27 per cent.The survey data indicate that rural and urban outcomes can differ considerably.
In some regions, children living in rural areas have higher levels of stunting, reflecting differences in access to nutrition, healthcare and other essential services.The NFHS-6 covered 715 districts, with fieldwork conducted between May 2023 and December 2024.
The findings underline the continuing need for comprehensive efforts to improve maternal and child nutrition, strengthen healthcare services and ensure that children receive adequate food and essential nutrients during the crucial early years of life.
