## Nutrition Program Targets and Indicators in India **Key Point:** India's nutrition programs (ICDS, Poshan Abhiyaan, NFHS) track specific anthropometric and micronutrient indicators with evidence-based targets. Understanding which targets are realistic and which are aspirational is critical for PSM. ### Key Nutrition Indicators and Their Status | Indicator | Definition | Target/Status | Program | |-----------|-----------|---------------|----------| | Stunting | Height-for-age Z-score < −2 SD | Reduce by 2% per annum (Poshan) | ICDS, Poshan Abhiyaan | | Wasting | Weight-for-height Z-score < −2 SD | Acute malnutrition; reduce urgently | ICDS, Poshan | | Underweight | Weight-for-age Z-score < −2 SD | Still ~30% nationally (NFHS-5) | ICDS | | Anemia (women 15–49) | Hb < 12 g/dL | Target: reduce via fortification | ICDS, nutrition programs | **High-Yield:** As per NFHS-5 (2019–21), the prevalence of underweight in children under 5 years is approximately **30–32%** nationally, NOT below 20%. This is a common trap in PSM exams. While there has been improvement from earlier surveys, the target of <20% has not yet been achieved. **Warning:** Do not confuse: - **Stunting** (chronic, height-for-age) with **wasting** (acute, weight-for-height). - **Underweight** (composite indicator) with either stunting or wasting alone. - Aspirational targets (e.g., Poshan Abhiyaan goals) with actual achieved prevalence (NFHS data). **Clinical Pearl:** Wasting is the most acute and reversible form of malnutrition and is a priority for emergency intervention; stunting is chronic and reflects long-term nutritional deprivation and poor health in early childhood. **Mnemonic:** **SAW** — **S**tunting (height-for-age, chronic), **A**cute wasting (weight-for-height, acute), **W**eight-for-age (underweight, composite). [cite:Park 26e Ch 10; NFHS-5 Report]
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