Unraveling the Causes of Child Stunting in India: A Focus on Caste Disparities

A study conducted by researchers from Ashoka University and Monash University reveals that India's high child stunting rates, now at 35.7%, are further exacerbated by entrenched caste disparities, influencing access to nutrition and healthcare.

The crisis of child stunting in India, where approximately 35.7% of the country's 137 million children under five are affected, has been attributed to various factors, with caste discrimination emerging as a critical underlying issue. New research presents a troubling picture: India exhibits higher rates of stunting than many regions in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Recent findings by Ashwini Deshpande from Ashoka University and Rajesh Ramachandran of Monash University, Malaysia, indicate that it's not just about the visible height gaps between children in India and their Sub-Saharan African counterparts, but also about the role of social identity, particularly caste. Child stunting is a reflection of nutritional deficiencies experienced early in life, especially during what is known as the "golden period" encompassing the first 1,000 days of development.

The research delves into the fate of children belonging to socially disadvantaged groups in India, such as adivasis (tribespeople) and Dalits, who collectively represent a large portion of the under-five age group. In stark contrast, children from higher-ranked caste groups experience stunting rates of only 27%, considerably lower than those from marginalized communities.

Despite the implementation of affirmative action over the past seven decades, India's caste system remains rigid, continuing to influence the nutritional outcomes of children. This study emphasizes that factors such as caloric intake and the health environment differ greatly across caste lines; children from wealthier backgrounds enjoy better conditions leading to healthier growth.

Discussion continues around the reasons behind stunting, with some attributing it to genetic predispositions, while others argue that improved nutrition over time should have alleviated these issues. Notably, a separate study revealed improvements in health, nutrition, and living standards have led to reduced stunting rates in select Indian states.

However, children from poor families and less-educated mothers remain particularly at risk, showcasing the intersection of caste, poverty, and education as critical components linked to child malnutrition. This comprehensive analysis, based on demographic and health surveys, highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions aimed at addressing these disparities, rather than solely focusing on nutritional intake. It sends a clear message that understanding the role of caste is pivotal in tackling India's child nutrition challenges.