India is suffering from malnutrition. At the same time, it has to deal with the issue of obesity. Nine states in the country face the double trouble. 30% or higher proportions of children under 5 have stunted growth while 20% or a higher proportion of them are obese. It is said that the problem is due to nutrition transition in emerging countries. Convenience foods accompanying urbanisation are a principal cause of obesity. Food conglomerates swamping the market have brought on this serious problem. Because of the easy availability of foodstuff like cheap biscuits and other snacks, proper meals are often not provided to children. These children are victims of lifestyle disorder. It is not only the children in the upper classes who are victims of such instant food. Instant food is often preferred by families to a balanced diet in order to avoid hassles.
The root cause lies in weak educational outcomes and reduced employment opportunities both in urban and rural India. Women in India suffer in large numbers from anaemia coupled with obesity. The percentage was 15.6 in 2016. These women often give birth to stunted children and the children are vulnerable to non – communicable diseases such as diabetes, tuberculosis or cardiac illness. It is essential that regular checks are done to ensure that all kinds of processed food meet minimum nutritional requirements. Proper sanitation and provision of clean drinking water are also necessary. The health system in the country has to be greatly improved. The state has to spread awareness about the two undesirable effects of malnutrition.
