Assessment of Nutritional Status of Tribal Children: A Case of Bhumija Munda tribe of Mayurbhanj

Abstract

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Shamakhuntha block of Mayurbhanj district in one of the tribal villages. The objectives were to assess the nutritional status of children belonging to Bhumija Munda tribe. Food consumption pattern of these tribal families was also conducted in participatory mode. Demographic information were collected from the mother of the children by using structured interview schedule. More than half (62.79%) children had normal weight as per their age. The percentage of underweight in the studied group was found to be 32.56 per cent. Gender difference was observed as the incidence of underweight was more among boys (35%) than girls (30.43%). Suggestions for improvement of nutritional status have been provided