Swahar - Mother and Child Health and Nutrition Project

PROJECT BACKGROUND 

India stands as one of the fastest-growing economies globally, yet the fundamental need for food and nutrition security for all citizens remains unmet. Hunger and malnutrition persist as significant concerns, particularly among women and children in remote tribal and rural communities, as well as urban slums. Mother and child malnutrition, in particular, serve as the root cause of numerous social challenges and demand urgent attention from key stakeholder groups including Government, Corporates (CSR), NGOs, civil society, families, and communities.

The crisis of mother and child malnutrition poses severe long-term socio-economic impacts, hindering the nation's overall growth and progress. India bears a staggering 22% of deaths among children under 5 years, with nearly 50% attributed to malnutrition-related causes. Shockingly, every third child in India suffers from malnutrition, resulting in nearly 2000 child deaths daily. Moreover, inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene conditions exacerbate malnutrition, especially in rural, tribal, and urban slum communities, where socio-economic factors like poverty, unemployment, and migration further compound the issue.

India's ranking of 111th out of 125 countries in the Global Hunger Index 2023 underscores the severity of the situation, with only 11.3% of children receiving adequate diets according to NFHS-5 data. Despite little to no improvement in other health and nutrition indicators, socio-economic conditions and limited livelihood opportunities continue to worsen the crisis. Surviving children remain vulnerable to infections and fail to reach their growth potential.

Addressing this crisis necessitates focused and impactful health and nutrition interventions to enhance the overall well-being of mothers and children. United Way India remains committed to driving meaningful change in this critical area, working collaboratively with stakeholders to build a healthier, more prosperous future for all.

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