MALNUTRITION 2 LAST

According to Dr Sesikeran, though the Centre was doing According to Dr Sesikeran, though the Centre was doing"enough" in terms of investment but in terms of delivery therehas not been "much happening". In fact, the policies taken up by the Central governmentto tackle malnutrition in the country, Dr Sesikeran said wouldbe "enough only if they are properly executed, monitored andowned by the MPs, MLAs, district and village-leveladministrators". "Investment must be made for manpower to monitor and makepeople accountable as well as improve the Anganwadi work forceor motivate them to show results. Very often the data generateditself is unreliable," Dr Sesikeran said. Talking about overweight or obesity, which, besides,malnutrition has become another challenge, the nutritionalpathologist said, "The fact that the under nourished and lowbirth weight individuals if they become less active and eat thewrong kind of foods in adolescence and adult life are prone tonon-communicable diseases. "Besides, the rapid urbanisation and the imbalance ofphysical activity and energy intakes have all fuelled thisspurt in NCD is responsible for this epidemic." According to the nutritional pathologist, the deliverysystems for nutrition security should be improved to addressthe issue. "Target the adolescent girls, educate people and fortifyfoods with micro nutrients to meet their daily needs.Regulation of high energy, high fat, high sugar and high saltfoods both in organised and unorganised sectors, provide easyto comprehend food labelling etc could be some of theinitiatives. And in addition, increase the avenues for physicalactivity in schools, colleges, public places, offices,"Sesikeran prescribed. Stating that though behavioural and lifestyle changes werebasically the responsibility of the individuals the governmentsand legislation should facilitate and motivate the public towillingly comply and for this there should be an enablingenvironment. "We need considerably more investment into peoples healthand nutrition. What is being done is not enough when youcompare with other nations who have overcome these problems,"he opined. PTI SCH MD DIP DVDIP