The Problem of Child Wasting in Jhajjar District, Haryana: A Spatial Analysis

Abstract

Undernutrition refers to the insufficient intake of essential nutrients due to inadequate food quality or the consumption of inappropriate food lacking necessary macro and micronutrients vital for healthy growth and development. A child may still experience undernutrition even if their food intake meets energy requirements, as a larger quantity of food does not guarantee a rich supply of these nutrients. This condition can result in children being underweight, having a shorter stature, and exhibiting lower weight relative to their age. The objective of this study is to investigate the issue of child undernutrition in the peripheral National Capital Region (NCR) district of Haryana, specifically in Jhajjar, from a geographical perspective. Additionally, the study aims to uncover the spatial distribution of child wasting, providing valuable insights for policymakers to develop targeted government strategies addressing specific regional challenges. Data for this research has been gathered from secondary sources, with an analysis of child wasting conducted at the community development block level. The spatial patterns of child wasting have been examined using data from the Department of Child and Women Development under the Ministry of Women and Child Development for Jhajjar for the year 2023-24. The assessment of child undernutrition is based on the proportion of stunted children among the total number of active children enrolled in Aanganwadi centers.