Is Nutritional Intake in Rural and Urban India Following a Similar Trend?
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Synopsis
The National Statistics Office reveals a notable similarity in calorie intake patterns between rural and urban India for the years 2022-24. This report highlights the rise in nutritional consumption, reflecting improvements in living standards and a reduction in inequality across different population strata.
Key Takeaways
- Rural and urban India show similar calorie intake patterns.
- Increased Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure correlates with higher calorie intake.
- Narrowing inequality in nutritional intake observed.
- Rise in protein consumption from diverse food sources.
- Considerable variation in intake across states.
New Delhi, July 2 (NationPress) A striking resemblance in the average daily calorie intake per capita and per consumer unit has been noted in both rural and urban India for the years 2022-23 and 2023-24, according to the 'Nutritional Intake in India' report released by the National Statistics Office this Wednesday.
The average daily calorie intake per capita in rural areas was recorded at 2,233 Kcal in 2022-23 and 2,212 Kcal in 2023-24. In urban regions, the figures were slightly higher at 2,250 Kcal and 2,240 Kcal for the same years, respectively, as indicated in the report.
This report is derived from consecutive Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys (HCES) carried out from August 2022 to July 2023, and from August 2023 to July 2024, collecting data on food consumption patterns of household members during specified time frames.
Additionally, the report highlights a rise in both per capita daily calorie intake and per consumer unit daily calorie intake for the bottom five fractile classes in rural India and the bottom six fractile classes in urban settings for the year 2023-24 compared to 2022-23.
It was noted that with an increase in Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE), there is a corresponding rise in average calorie intake in both rural and urban regions.
A somewhat similar trend is evident in the daily calorie, protein, and fat intake per capita and per consumer unit across rural and urban India during both periods.
In both sectors, the average calorie intake (per capita or per consumer unit) shows improvement as living conditions are enhanced, as indicated by the MPCE.
The disparity between the bottom fractile class (the lowest 5% of the population ranked by per capita expenditure) and the top fractile class (the highest 5%) in terms of calorie intake has significantly narrowed in 2023-24, suggesting a reduction in inequality.
From 2009-10 to 2023-24, a slight rise in daily calorie intake has been observed nationwide across both rural and urban areas, with a similar increase in protein intake noted.
Cereals remain the primary source of protein among five food groups, which also include pulses, milk and milk products, and egg/fish/meat. They account for about 46-47% of protein intake in rural India and 39% in urban India during both periods, as stated in the report.
The contribution of cereals to protein intake has decreased by approximately 14% in rural India and nearly 12% in urban India since 2009-10. This decline has been offset by significant increases in the consumption of egg, fish, meat, and a small rise in the share of milk and milk products, reflecting improved living standards, as further detailed in the report.
However, the report also identifies considerable variation in both average daily calorie intake per capita and per consumer unit across major states for the years 2022-23 and 2023-24.
Point of View
I believe that the findings from the NSO report underscore the evolving landscape of nutritional intake in India. It is essential to recognize the implications of these trends, especially in addressing inequality and improving overall public health. With the data highlighting similarities between rural and urban areas, policymakers must focus on strategies to enhance nutritional standards for all citizens.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the NSO report indicate about calorie intake in India?
The NSO report indicates that average daily calorie intake per capita and per consumer unit shows similar patterns in both rural and urban India for 2022-23 and 2023-24.
How has nutritional intake changed over the years?
There has been a slight increase in per capita calorie and protein intake from 2009-10 to 2023-24 across both rural and urban areas.
What food sources dominate protein intake in India?
Cereals continue to be the primary source of protein, accounting for 46-47% in rural India and about 39% in urban India.
Is there a reduction in nutritional inequality?
Yes, the report shows a significant narrowing of the gap in calorie intake between the bottom and top fractile classes in both rural and urban India.
Are there any significant changes in consumption patterns?
Yes, there has been a notable shift in dietary patterns, with a decrease in cereal contribution to protein intake balanced by increases in meat and dairy consumption.
