Protein deficiency is a major issue in India for several reasons, including inadequate knowledge, misguided beliefs about protein sources, and dietary practices. Studies show that a large proportion of Indians, including wealthy urban dwellers and vegetarians, do not consume adequate protein daily as recommended. According to the survey of Indian Market Research Bureau (IMRB), 2015 80% of Indian diets are protein deficient.
Lack of Knowledge: A sizable section of the populace is still ignorant of the sources of foods high in protein and the significance of including it in one's diet. Inadequate protein consumption is a result of this ignorance.
Cultural Dietary Practices: Because Indian traditional diets are typically plant-based and high in carbohydrates, they may not provide enough protein. The country has a high rate of vegetarianism, which restricts access to some high-protein animal sources.
Economic Disparities: Protein deficiency is a result of both unequal access to nutrient-dense foods and economic disparities. Foods high in protein may be out of reach for vulnerable groups, particularly those living in rural areas, which could result in deficiencies.
Challenges in Effective Policy Implementation: Although there are a number of government programs and initiatives, the impact of these policies on addressing protein deficiency at the national level may be hampered by difficulties in their effective implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
Policies by Indian government to address the protein deficiency in India -
Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): This program gives children 500 calories per day and 12–15 grams of protein, and for teenage girls, up to 25 grams of protein.
Public Distribution System (PDS): A major factor influencing household food choices, especially for those at the lower end of the income pyramid, is the government's control over one of the world's largest food stocks through the PDS. This system can be used to raise awareness of the value of foods high in protein and to promote their consumption.
National Nutrition Policy: The goal of the National Nutrition Policy (NNP) is to combat different types of malnutrition, such as protein shortage. It highlights the necessity of an all-encompassing strategy that incorporates demand-side and supply-side interventions, such as raising consumer awareness and encouraging behavioural changes in addition to increasing the accessibility and affordability of foods high in protein.
Mid-Day Meal Scheme: Especially in schools and among vulnerable populations, the government's mid-day meal programs can also be used to increase the availability and consumption of foods high in protein.
Final Thoughts
In Conclusion, even after decades of independence and government efforts, India continues to face a serious protein shortage. Although the nation has put in place a number of laws and initiatives to deal with this problem, including the Mid-Day Meal Scheme and the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), these initiatives have run into a number of obstacles. The difficulties these policies have in being implemented is one of their main drawbacks.
The efficient execution and just allocation of foods high in protein have been impeded by challenges related to logistics, quality assurance, and inconsistent outreach throughout the nation. As a result, these programs' actual impact has been somewhat limited.
In comparison to other regions, India consumes a notably lower amount of protein. The World Resources Institute estimates that China, Latin America, and the Middle East consume more than 70g of protein daily, compared to India's average of 47g. Nearly 90 grams of protein are consumed daily by the average person in the USA and Europe.
Written By Shweta Goshwami
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