International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research
E-ISSN: 2582-2160
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A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal
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Volume 8 Issue 2
March-April 2026
Indexing Partners
Effectiveness of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in Reducing Child Malnutrition in India: A Systematic Review
| Author(s) | Mr. Naresh Kumar, Prof. Ranvir Singh |
|---|---|
| Country | India |
| Abstract | India continues to face a heavy burden of childhood undernutrition. This systematic review examines whether Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) – India’s flagship early childhood program – has measurably improved child nutrition. This study synthesized recent secondary analyses of national surveys and program evaluations. Between 2016 and 2021, ICDS coverage expanded markedly; one large study found utilization grew from 58% to 71% and underweight prevalence fell from 37% to 32%, with ICDS expansion explaining about 9–12% of that improvement. Another study reported that children using ICDS services had about 19% higher odds of dietary diversity and more frequent animal-source foods, though ICDS did not improve overall meal adequacy or frequency. However, ICDS coverage gaps remain: children with severe acute malnutrition were not especially more likely to receive services, indicating targeting inefficiencies. Persistent issues – underfunding, weak infrastructure, poorly paid workers, and over-centralized management – limit ICDS impact. The study concludes that ICDS has had modest positive effects on child nutrition, but significant program quality improvements and targeting reforms are needed to accelerate reductions in malnutrition. |
| Keywords | Child Malnutrition, ICDS, Nutrition Programs, Poshan Abhiyan, Early Childhood Care |
| Field | Sociology > Health |
| Published In | Volume 8, Issue 2, March-April 2026 |
| Published On | 2026-03-13 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i02.71356 |
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E-ISSN 2582-2160
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