| Decomposing the Rural-Urban Differentials in Childhood Malnutrition in India, 1992–2006 |
| Authors: |
Abhishek Kumar, and Divya Kumari |
| Source: |
Asian Population Studies, 10(2):144-162, DOI: 10.1080/17441730.2014.902161 |
| Topic(s): |
Child health
Nutrition
Rural-urban differentials
Wealth Index
|
| Country: |
Asia
India
|
| Published: |
APR 2014 |
| Abstract: |
Using data from multi-waves of the National Family Health Survey conducted in India between 1992 and 2006, this study examines the pattern of rural–urban differentials in childhood malnutrition in India over time. Furthermore, it identifies the factors responsible for the rural–urban gap in childhood malnutrition and quantifies their contribution. The result shows a considerable and widening gap in childhood malnutrition across rural–urban residence in the country over the study period. The rural–urban gap in childhood malnutrition has narrowed in a few states whereas it widened in most states over time. The economic status of the household and parental education was the most significant contributors to the rural–urban gap in childhood malnutrition in India. Based on the findings, this study suggests that to reduce the rural–urban gap in childhood malnutrition, focus should be given to the rural poor.
KEYWORDS
• underweight,
• rural–urban differentials,
• wealth index,
• decomposition,
• India |
|