India's Child Health Crisis: Stunting and Malnutrition Stats Revealed

Staggering figures from the Poshan Tracker reveal that 37.07% of children under the age of five in India are stunted, with Uttar Pradesh recording the highest rates at 48.83%. The alarming statistics were highlighted in a Rajya Sabha response by Minister Savitri Thakur.

The data further shows a reduction in the number of registered children, dropping to 8.61 crore from the previous year's 8.91 crore. In response, around two lakh Anganwadi centers are set to be transformed into 'Saksham Anganwadis,' equipped with modern infrastructure and digital tools to address child development concerns.

As of now, official notes confirm that 88,716 mini Anganwadis spanning 20 states and Union Territories have received approval for the proposed enhancements, signaling the government's commitment to improving child health outcomes across the nation.

(With inputs from agencies.)