Takshashila Discussion SlideDoc - A New Approach to Nutrition in Karnataka

Executive Summary

Malnutrition, traditionally tied to undernutrition, has been an enduring challenge for India. However, we are now facing a double burden of malnutrition with pre-existing undernutrition and overnutrition related malnutrition adding significantly to it.

Our present approach to malnutrition majorly uses public nutrition approach. In this approach, interventions are targeted at the population level. We recommend the separation of clinical and public nutrition approaches to better tackle malnutrition.

We also advise an overhaul of the present structure of departments. The new configuration will consist of a Department of Nutrition, made up a Directorate of Clinical Nutrition, Directorate of Public Nutrition and a Directorate of Education and Training. A Karnataka Nutrition Institute will provide technical knowledge. All of the government’s nutrition intervention will be overseen by the Nutrition Council of Karnataka. The Council will be responsible for policy development and execution.

This is a better approach due to its focus on public nutrition and a unified department of nutrition.

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