Determinants of Undernutrition in Rural India

Using a new data set constructed by converting NSS household consumption figures
(rural sector) for the 43rd round (1987-88), 50th round (1993-94) and 55th round (1999-
2000) into their nutritional equivalents, this paper presents new evidence of the extent of
undernourishment in terms of calories and proteins. Results are presented for evidence of
undernourishment in terms of calories for sedentary, moderate and heavy work, in terms
of protein and jointly in terms of protein and calories. The results are presented at the
national, state and NSS regional levels. Undernourishment declined between 1987-88 and
1993-94 almost everywhere and more spectacularly between 1993-94 and 1999-2000;
however the 55th round data is not strictly comparable with the earlier rounds. We also
analyse logit models of determinants of undernutrition.