UN Statistical Commission Adopts New SDG Indicator on Minimum Dietary Diversity

 UN Statistical Commission Adopts New SDG Indicator on Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD)

The UN Statistical Commission has adopted a new indicator on Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD), adding to nearly 250 indicators tracked under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework established in 2017. This new indicator, jointly managed by FAO and UNICEF, addresses the lack of an SDG measure for healthy diets.

The MDD indicator fills a critical gap in tracking progress toward ending malnutrition and advancing SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), as well as supporting the broader 2030 Agenda for sustainable development.

About MDD: According to WHO, MDD is considered achieved when a diet includes at least five of the following eight food groups: breast milk, grains, legumes, dairy products, flesh foods, eggs, fruits, and vegetables.

Significance of the MDD Indicator:

• Improved Nutritional Assessment: The indicator specifically tracks the nutritional needs of women (MDD-W) and children (MDD-C), who are the most vulnerable to malnutrition.
• Tracking Global Health Targets: It supports SDG 2, which aims to eliminate hunger and improve nutrition globally.
• Policy Tool: It serves as a tool for policymakers to develop strategies to combat malnutrition by addressing health risks related to poor dietary habits.
• Evaluating Program Impact: The indicator helps assess the effectiveness of nutrition programs.

Status of Minimum Dietary Diversity Failure (MDDF) in India (2019-21):

• Regional Disparities: The central region of India, particularly Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, has over 80% of children with MDDF.
• Age Impact on MDDF: 77% of children in India aged 6-23 months are lacking minimum dietary diversity.
• Vulnerable Sections: Children from Other Backward Classes experience the highest MDDF at 79%, followed by Scheduled Castes at 77.2% and Scheduled Tribes at 76%.

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