International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 8, Issue 2 (March-April 2026) Submit your research before last 3 days of April to publish your research paper in the issue of March-April.

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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