11 Sep 2025 : UNICEF has sounded the alarm over a growing nutrition crisis among children across South Asia, warning that millions are at risk of stunted growth, wasting, and malnutrition-related diseases if urgent action is not taken.
In its latest report, “Nourishing the Future: South Asia’s Child Nutrition Challenge,” UNICEF highlights that despite economic progress in countries like India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, child malnutrition remains a significant public health challenge. The report estimates that more than 64 million children under five in South Asia are stunted, and over 27 million are wasted, meaning they are dangerously underweight for their height.
Key Findings of the Report
- South Asia remains the epicenter of child malnutrition, accounting for nearly half of the world’s stunted children.
- Rising food prices, poor dietary diversity, and limited access to clean water are worsening the crisis.
- Climate change-induced floods, droughts, and heatwaves have disrupted food production, leading to higher food insecurity.
- Micronutrient deficiencies, particularly iron, vitamin A, and zinc, are contributing to poor immunity and delayed cognitive development.
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said:
“No child should have to suffer the lifelong effects of malnutrition. Governments and communities must act now to ensure children have access to nutritious food, healthcare, and clean water.”
India’s Situation
India, home to the largest number of undernourished children, has made progress through initiatives like POSHAN Abhiyaan and school mid-day meal programs, but gaps remain. The report notes that one in three Indian children under five is still stunted, and childhood anemia rates remain alarmingly high.
Nutrition experts stress that tackling malnutrition requires multi-sectoral action — improving maternal health, promoting breastfeeding, fortifying foods, and educating families about balanced diets.
UNICEF’s Recommendations:
- Expand social protection programs to ensure vulnerable families can afford nutritious food.
- Strengthen primary healthcare services to deliver growth monitoring, vitamin supplements, and treatment for severe acute malnutrition.
- Promote exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and complementary feeding afterward.
- Improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities to prevent diarrheal diseases that worsen malnutrition.
- Engage local communities to address cultural food taboos and promote nutrition education.
The Way Forward
UNICEF calls for governments, NGOs, and the private sector to work together to close the nutrition gap. Investment in child nutrition, it says, not only saves lives but also boosts economic growth by reducing healthcare costs and improving educational outcomes.
Summary:
UNICEF warns of a worsening child nutrition crisis in South Asia, with millions stunted or wasted. Urgent action is needed to improve food security, healthcare, and maternal-child nutrition programs.