Nutrition garden model (Poshan Vatika): pathway for nutrition security

This study examines the role of nutri-gardens in enhancing dietary diversity and food security to combat malnutrition in Jharkhand, one of India's most undernourished states. Malnutrition, characterized by stunting, wasting, and anemia, especially affects women and children. Nutri-gardens, small household plots promoting the cultivation of nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants, have shown promise in improving nutrition and empowering women, as seen in initiatives like the "Didi Bari" program. Despite challenges such as limited land and water, nutri-gardens have improved food security, nutritional diversity, and household income. The study highlights the need for a multisectoral approach, government support, community education, and behavior change communication to ensure the sustainability and scalability of nutri-garden programs. The research reveals that with adequate technical support and awareness, nutri-gardens can be a sustainable solution to enhance nutritional security in Jharkhand’s marginalized communities. The study concludes that nutri-gardens not only improve household nutrition but also serve as an income source, particularly benefiting vulnerable groups like children, pregnant, and nursing women. However, to address malnutrition effectively, substantial government support and education programs are necessary to foster changes in food systems and improve the impact of nutri-garden initiatives.