Adolescent Malnutrition (Double Burden)
India faces a 'double burden' of malnutrition in adolescents, with persistent stunting alongside rapidly rising obesity and metabolic risks driven by lifesty...
How schools can tackle adolescent malnutrition
The article highlights adolescent malnutrition as a silent public health emergency in India, characterized by a 'double burden' of undernutrition and rising obesity, as evidenced by NFHS-6 (2023-24) and CNNS (2019) data. It notes the spread of lifestyle diseases like obesity and high blood sugar to rural populations and the prevalence of the 'thin-fat' phenotype. Emphasizing schools as critical settings for prevention, the article proposes interventions such as improved midday meals, healthier canteens, promoting fruits/vegetables, discouraging Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) and sugary drinks, and ensuring structured physical activity. It also mentions the 'Let’s Fix Our Food' (LFOF) initiative led by ICMR-NIN, which aims to create healthier food environments through policy, nutrition literacy, and regulatory frameworks.
Syllabus mapping
Mains syllabus topics
Indian Culture Art Architecture
Modern Indian History
Post Independence Consolidation
World History
Indian Society Diversity
Prelims takeaways
- NFHS-6 (2023-24) findings on rising obesity and high blood sugar among adults.
- CNNS (2019) data on adolescent stunting and the 'thin-fat' phenotype.
- WHO study indicating a surge in UPF consumption in India.
- Lancet 2025 projection for overweight population in India.
- The 'Let’s Fix Our Food' (LFOF) initiative, its leadership (ICMR-NIN), and objectives.
- Concept of 'double burden' of malnutrition and 'thin-fat' phenotype.
- Role of schools in public health interventions for nutrition and physical activity.
- Dietary Guidelines for Indians 2024 recommendation regarding fruit and vegetable intake.
Elimination traps
- Confusing specific data points from different surveys (NFHS-6, CNNS, WHO, Lancet).
- Misattributing the 'Let’s Fix Our Food' initiative to an incorrect organization.
- Overlooking the specific term 'thin-fat' phenotype and its implications.
Static concepts
- Adolescent malnutrition
- Double burden of malnutrition
- Undernutrition
- Obesity
- Thin-fat phenotype
- Non-communicable diseases (NCDs)
- Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs)
- High fat sugar and salt (HFSS) foods
- Dietary Guidelines for Indians 2024
- Midday Meal Scheme
Probable question areas
Question areas
- Questions on the 'double burden of malnutrition' and its manifestations in India.
Question areas
- Specific data points from national surveys (NFHS, CNNS) related to health indicators.
Question areas
- Role of government bodies and initiatives (e.g., ICMR-NIN, LFOF) in addressing public health challenges.
Question areas
- Policy recommendations for improving school nutrition and promoting physical activity.
Question areas
- Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) and sedentary lifestyles on public health in India.
UPSC concepts in this story
Durable syllabus ideas for revision — not article memory.
Previous year Prelims questions on overlapping themes and topics.
Which of the following are the objectives of ‘National Nutrition Mission’?
1. To create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactating mothers.
2. To reduce the incidence of anaemia among young children, adolescent girls and women.
3. To promote the consumption of millets, coarse cereals and unpolished rice.
4. To promote the consumption of poultry eggs.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Explanation
Correct answer
A. 1 and 2 only
The National Nutrition Mission, also known as Poshan Abhiyaan, has several objectives. - The first objective is to create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactating mothers. - The second objective is to reduce the incidence of anaemia among young children, adolescent girls and women. These two objectives are clearly stated in the mission's goals. Hence, statements 1 & 2 are correct. However, the promotion of the consumption of millets, coarse cereals and unpolished rice, and the promotion of the consumption of poultry eggs are not explicitly stated as objectives of the mission. Hence, statement 3 & 4 are incorrect.
Social Justice & Development
Welfare Schemes & Social Policies
‘Mission Indradhanush’ launched by the Government of India pertains to -
Explanation
Correct answer
A. Immunization of children and pregnant women
Mission Indradhanush launched by the Government of India pertains to immunization. Specifically, it's a special immunization program that aims to - Increase full immunization coverage - Mission Indradhanush targets children under two years old and pregnant women to ensure they receive all the recommended vaccines for protection against vaccine-preventable diseases. - Focus on low-coverage areas - Improve routine immunization By focusing on these aspects, Mission Indradhanush aims to improve overall child health and reduce the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases in India. Hence, option A is the correct answer.
Social Justice & Development
Indian Polity & Governance
Welfare Schemes & Social Policies
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 Act passed by the Parliament of India in 2018, mandates reservation in education and employment, places a legal duty on Governments to ensure accessibility and non-discrimination.
2. The Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan focuses on achieving universal accessibility for Persons with Disabilities across three key domains — built infrastructure, transport systems and information and communication technology.
3. The National Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC) is a public sector organisation set up by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs as a not-for-profit company to promote entrepreneurship among Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).
Select the answer using the code given below :
Explanation
Correct answer
B. 2 only
Statement 1 is Incorrect: The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act was passed by the Parliament of India in 2016, not 2018. It aligns with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and places a legal obligation on governments to ensure non-discrimination and accessibility. It also mandates reservations for PwDs, such as increasing the quota to 4% in government employment and 5% in higher education. Statement 2 is Correct: The Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India Campaign) was launched in 2015 by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD). It focuses on achieving universal accessibility for Persons with Disabilities across three key domains: built infrastructure (barrier-free public buildings), transport systems (accessible railways, airports, and roads), and information and communication technology (accessible government websites and digital ecosystems). Statement 3 is Incorrect: The National Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC) is a Central Public Sector Undertaking registered as a not-for-profit company to provide concessional financial assistance to promote entrepreneurship, self-employment, and higher education among PwDs. However, it was set up under the aegis of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, not the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Therefore, the correct option is B.
Social Justice & Development
Indian Polity & Governance
Welfare Schemes & Social Policies
With reference to the 'Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan', consider the following statements:
1. This scheme guarantees a minimum package of antenatal care services to women in their second and third trimesters of pregnancy and six months post-delivery health care service in any government health facility.
2. Under this scheme, private sector health care providers of certain specialities can volunteer to provide services at nearby government health facilities.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Explanation
Correct answer
B. 2 only
* Statement 1: Incorrect. The Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) provides a minimum package of antenatal care (ANC) services only during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. It does not cover post-delivery health care services for six months. The focus is on ensuring safe pregnancies through early detection and management of high-risk cases. * Statement 2: Correct. Under PMSMA, private sector health care providers (such as gynecologists, radiologists, and physicians) can volunteer to provide free services at nearby government health facilities on the 9th of every month. This public-private partnership enhances access to specialized care for pregnant women.
Social Justice & Development
Welfare Schemes & Social Policies
Consider the following statements in relation to Janani Suraksha Yojana:
1. It is safe motherhood intervention of the State Health Departments.
2. Its objective is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality among poor pregnant women.
3. It aims to promote institutional delivery among poor pregnant women.
4. Its objective includes providing public health facilities to sick infants up to one year of age.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Explanation
Correct answer
B. Only two
Statement 1 is incorrect: Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) is a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the National Health Mission (NHM). It is a central intervention implemented by states, not an intervention of the State Health Departments. Statement 2 is correct: The primary objective is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality by encouraging safe, institutional births. Statement 3 is correct: The scheme provides a cash incentive to mothers to promote institutional delivery, particularly among those from BPL, SC, and ST households. Statement 4 is incorrect: While care for sick infants is a priority under the National Health Mission, the provision of free facilities for sick infants up to one year of age is specifically a feature of the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK) launched in 2011. JSY, launched in 2005, is primarily a conditional cash transfer scheme for delivery.
Social Justice & Development
Welfare Schemes & Social Policies
With reference to land reforms in independent India, which one of the following statements is correct?
Explanation
Correct answer
B. The major aim of land reforms was providing agricultural land to all the landless.
Land reform is a broad term: - It refers to an institutional measure directed towards altering the existing pattern of ownership, tenancy, and management of land. - It entails redistribution of the rights of ownership and/or use of land away from large landowners and in favour of cultivators with very limited or no landholdings. - At the time of independence, ownership of land was concentrated in the hands of a few. This led to the exploitation of the farmers and was a major hindrance towards the socio-economic development of the rural population. - Equal distribution of land was therefore an area of focus of Independent India's government. Laws for land ceilings were enacted in various states during the 50s & 60s, which were modified on the directives of the central government in 1972.
Agriculture
Indian Economy
History Of India
Agricultural Policies & Supply Chains
Welfare Schemes & Social Policies
With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM) Yojana, consider the following statements:
1. The entry age group for enrolment in the scheme is 21 to 40 years.
2. Age specific contribution shall be made by the beneficiary.
3. Each subscriber under the scheme shall receive a minimum pension of ₹ 3,000 per month after attaining the age of 60 years.
4. Family pension is applicable to the spouse and unmarried daughters.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Explanation
Correct answer
B. 2 and 3 only
With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM) Yojana, here's the breakdown of the statements: * Statement 1: Incorrect. The eligible age group for enrolment in the scheme is 18 to 40 years, not 21 to 40 years. This allows younger workers to join early and contribute for a longer period. * Statement 2: Correct. Beneficiaries are required to make age-specific monthly contributions, which increase with age. For instance, contributions start at ₹55 for an 18-year-old and go up to ₹200 for a 40-year-old. * Statement 3: Correct. Subscribers will receive a minimum pension of ₹3,000 per month after attaining 60 years of age. This provides social security for workers in the unorganized sector. * Statement 4: Incorrect. Family pension is available only to the spouse, who will receive 50% of the pension amount after the subscriber's death. Unmarried daughters are not eligible for this benefit.
Indian Economy
Social Justice & Development
Welfare Schemes & Social Policies
With reference to the provisions made under the National Food Security Act, 2013 consider the following statements:
1. The families coming under the category of 'below poverty line (BPL)' only are eligible to receive subsidised grains.
2. The eldest woman in a household, of age 18 years or above, shall be the head of the household for the purpose of issuance of a ration card.
3. Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to a take-home ration' of 1600 calories per day during pregnancy and for six months thereafter.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Explanation
Correct answer
B. 2 only
Statement 1 is incorrect: In 2013, NFSA was enacted to provide food security to 67% of the population in the form of highly subsidized food grains at Rs. 2 and 3 per Kg for wheat and rice respectively. Beneficiaries are identified using Socio-economic Caste Census (SECC) methodology so even non-BPL will also benefit. Statement 2 is correct: Under the NFSA, to issue ration cards the eldest woman of a household aged 18 years or above would be considered as head. Hence, this statement is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to a nutritious take home ration of 600 Calories and a maternity benefit of at least Rs 6,000 for six months, says the official act.
Indian Polity & Governance
Social Justice & Development
Welfare Schemes & Social Policies
Consider the following statements :
Statement-I :India's public sector health care system largely focuses on curative care with limited preventive, promotive and rehabilitative care.
Statement-II: Under India's decentralized approach to health care delivery, the States are primarily responsible for organizing health services.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Explanation
Correct answer
B. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
* Statement I is correct: India's public healthcare system prioritises curative care, which focuses on treating existing illnesses. Preventive, promotive, and rehabilitative care, which aims to prevent diseases, promote good health, and help people recover from illness, receive less emphasis. * Statement II is correct: India's healthcare system follows a decentralised approach. The central government sets policies and provides financial assistance, but individual states are responsible for organising and delivering health services to their populations. This allows for flexibility based on local needs and contexts.
Therefore, the answer is Both Statement I and Statement II are correct.
Social Justice & Development
Indian Polity & Governance
Welfare Schemes & Social Policies
Federal Structure & Centre State Relations
Who among the following can join the National Pension System (NPS)?
Explanation
Correct answer
C. All State Government employees joining the services after the date of notification by the respective State Governments
The Central Government introduced the National Pension System (NPS) with effect from January 1, 2004 (except for armed forces). Subsequently, various State Governments adopted this architecture and implemented NPS with effect from different dates. Eligibility to join
- Any citizen of India, whether resident or non-resident, subject to the following conditions.
- Individuals who are aged between 18 60 years, including NRIs.
- After attaining 60 years of age, you will not be permitted to make further contributions to the NPS accounts
Indian Economy
Social Justice & Development
Indian Polity & Governance
Welfare Schemes & Social Policies
Previous year Mains questions mapped to overlapping GS syllabus topics.
Does tribal development in India centre around two axes, those of displacement and of rehabilitation? Give your opinion.
Salient features of Indian Society and Diversity
Women, population, poverty, urbanization and development
View Mains PYQ
Achieving sustainable growth with emphasis on environmental protection could come into conflict with poor people’s needs in a country like India – Comment.
Salient features of Indian Society and Diversity
Women, population, poverty, urbanization and development
View Mains PYQ
How do you account for the growing fast food industries given that there are increased health concerns in modern society? Illustrate your answer with the Indian experience.
Salient features of Indian Society and Diversity
Women, population, poverty, urbanization and development
Effects of globalization on Indian society
View Mains PYQ
The French Revolution has enduring relevance to the contemporary world. Explain.
History of the world from 18th century
View Mains PYQ
Trace India’s consolidation process during early phase of independence in terms of polity, economy, education and international relations.
Post-independence consolidation and reorganization
View Mains PYQ
Mahatma Jotirao Phule’s writings and efforts of social reforms touched issues of almost all subaltern classes. Discuss.
Modern Indian history (mid-18th century to present)
Salient features of Indian Society and Diversity
Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism and secularism
View Mains PYQ
With reference to the recent findings on adolescent malnutrition in India, consider the following statements: 1. The National Family Health Survey-6 (NFHS-6) (2023-24) indicates a rise in obesity among both women and men aged 15-49 years. 2. The Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS, 2019) reported that over 30% of Indian adolescents are stunted. 3. The 'thin-fat' phenotype refers to children who appear lean but carry dangerous metabolic risks. Which of the statements given above are correct?
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: The article states, "Obesity among women aged 15-49 years has risen from 24% to 30.7%, and among men from 22.9% to 27.3%." Statement 2 is incorrect: The article mentions, "According to the Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS, 2019), 27.4% of Indian adolescents are stunted," which is not over 30%. Statement 3 is correct: The article defines the 'thin-fat' phenotype as "children who appear lean yet carry dangerous metabolic risk."
Consider the following statements regarding the 'Let’s Fix Our Food' (LFOF) initiative: 1. It is led by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. 2. Its objectives include empowering youth through nutrition literacy and campaigning for regulatory frameworks. 3. Taxation on unhealthy beverages is one of its recommended outputs. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Explanation
Statement 1 is incorrect: The article states, "Led by the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN)." Statement 2 is correct: The article mentions LFOF aims "empowering youth through nutrition literacy, and campaigning for regulatory frameworks." Statement 3 is correct: The article lists "taxation on unhealthy beverages" as one of its outputs.
Which of the following interventions are recommended in the article for schools to tackle adolescent malnutrition? 1. Improving midday meals and promoting healthier canteens. 2. Actively discouraging sugary beverages and Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs). 3. Guaranteeing structured physical activity and sports as core educational components. 4. Adopting skill-based nutrition education like reading food labels and understanding marketing tactics. Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Explanation
All four statements are explicitly mentioned in the article as recommended interventions for schools. The article suggests "improved midday meals, healthier canteens," "actively discourage sugary beverages and display sugar boards showing hidden sugar content," "guarantee structured physical activity and sports as core educational components," and "adopt skill-based approaches such as reading food labels, recognising portion sizes, understanding marketing tactics, and basic cooking."
"Adolescent malnutrition is a silent public health emergency in India, characterized by a 'double burden' of undernutrition and rising obesity." In light of this statement, discuss the multifaceted nature of adolescent malnutrition and critically examine the comprehensive role schools can play in addressing this challenge.
Introduce the 'double burden' of undernutrition and rising obesity, citing relevant data and its implications. Elaborate on specific school-based interventions covering dietary improvements, promotion of physical activity, and skill-based nutrition education, discussing their potential impact and challenges.
Beyond school-level interventions, what broader policy and regulatory frameworks are essential to create healthier food environments for adolescents in India? In this context, analyze the significance of initiatives like 'Let’s Fix Our Food' (LFOF).
Outline policy measures beyond schools, such as regulating HFSS food advertising, taxation on unhealthy beverages, and mandatory food labeling. Explain LFOF's role as a multi-stakeholder initiative and its specific contributions to advancing these broader policy and regulatory frameworks.