Inter-Regional Differentials in Nutritional Intake in India: Evidence from Cluster Analysis

Making use of NSSO data for the 50th, 55th, and 61st Rounds, an attempt has been made in the present empirical study to assess inter-state differentials among 23 states and 6 Union Territories (UTs) of India with respect to per capita per diem intake of calories, protein, and fat, separately for rural and urban regions. The study (through the applications of univariate ANOVA, MANOVA, and clustering techniques) has revealed the presence of high-profile gaps among states and UTs with respect to nutritional intake. Although constitution of clusters of the states/UTs for rural and urban regions was not exactly identical, Tamil Nadu, Meghalaya, Pondicherry, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, and West Bengal happened to be the states/UTs which commonly appeared (among both the regions) in the laggard cluster (associated with the lowest nutritional intake). As an implication for framing policies regarding nutritional aspects, the government needs to remain vigilant about the presence of high-profile inter-state and inter-regional differentials in nutritional intake and give increased emphasis to the states/UTs falling in the laggard clusters. The state must not shirk away from the responsibility of providing welfare means to the truly deserving section of the society so as to build a healthy nation.