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Adolescent Malnutrition (Double Burden)

PYQs

2

Articles

1

Momentum

9

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

This concept is crucial for understanding India's public health challenges, demographic dividend, the growing burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), and the effectiveness of welfare schemes. It links to social justice, human resource development, and sustainable development goals, requiring multi-sectoral policy interventions.

Malnutrition in adolescents is a critical public health challenge in India, characterized by a 'double burden' where undernutrition (stunting) coexists with rising overnutrition (obesity and associated metabolic risks). This complex issue has profound long-term implications for individual health, national productivity, and healthcare expenditure.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

NFHS-6 (2023-24) Findings

Shows rising obesity (15-49 years) and high blood sugar (15+ years) in both men and women, affecting rural populations too.

CNNS (2019) Data

Indicates 27.4% of Indian adolescents are stunted, while obesity is also rising, particularly among urban youth.

'Thin-Fat' Phenotype

Observed where lean-appearing children carry dangerous metabolic risks (e.g., high triglycerides), a 'metabolic time bomb'.

Key Drivers

Rapidly increasing consumption of Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) and sugary beverages, coupled with sedentary lifestyles and cereal-heavy diets.

Reference table

NFHS-6 (2023-24) Key Findings on Malnutrition Indicators

IndicatorMen (15+ years)Women (15-49 years)
Obesity27.3% (from 22.9%)30.7% (from 24%)
High Blood Sugar20.9% (from 15.6%)17.8% (from 13.5%)

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaSocial Justice & Development
Conceptual areaWelfare Schemes & Social Policies

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN)Researches and advises policy
World Health Organization (WHO)Researches and advises policy
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Prelims angle: Multi-statement analysis

Prelims angle: Policy measures

Quick revision

  • Double burden: Undernutrition (stunting) + Overnutrition (obesity, metabolic risk) in adolescents.
  • Key drivers: Sedentary lifestyle, UPFs, sugary drinks, inadequate protective foods.
  • Consequences: Early NCDs (diabetes, heart disease), increased healthcare costs.
  • Solutions: School-based interventions (midday meals, physical activity, nutrition literacy), policy (UPF regulation, taxation).
  • Key bodies: ICMR-NIN (Let's Fix Our Food initiative), WHO.

Topic timeline

Social Justice & DevelopmentWelfare Schemes & Social Policies
Prelims 2017· Multi-statement analysis, Policy measures

Which of the following are the objectives of ‘National Nutrition Mission’? 1. To create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactatin...

Open question
Prelims 2026· Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall

Which of the following statements with regard to the persons with disabilities in India is/are correct ? 1. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, an ...

Open question

How schools can tackle adolescent malnutrition

29 Jun 2026 · India faces a 'double burden' of malnutrition in adolescents, with persistent stunting alongside rapidly rising obesity and metabolic risks driven by lifestyle changes and UPFs. This necessitates comprehensive school-based and policy interventions to prevent long-term health and economic consequences.

Read article

Related topics

Current topic

Adolescent Malnutrition (Double Burden)

Practice writing on this topic

UPSC has asked 2 linked questions on Adolescent Malnutrition (Double Burden) in Mains. Write an answer to one — and get it evaluated.

See Mains PYQsEvaluate an answer

UPSC Prelims PYQs on Adolescent Malnutrition (Double Burden)

Practice official previous year questions asked by UPSC related to this concept.

Which of the following are the objectives of ‘National Nutrition Mission’? 1. To create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactatin...

2017·Social Issues & Schemes
Solve

Which of the following statements with regard to the persons with disabilities in India is/are correct ? 1. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, an ...

2026·Social Issues & Schemes
Solve

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