A Narrative Synthesis of Creative Communication and Innovative Practices Promoting Dietary Diversity and Nutritional Adequacy for Tribal Communities in the Indian States of Odisha, Jharkhand, and Bihar

Abstract In recent decades, India has experienced a rise in overweight, obesity, and diet-related non-communicable diseases, prompting a shift from focusing solely on food production to tackle undernutrition to promoting food-based dietary patterns for better health. However, policies and communication strategies tailored to tribal and Indigenous populations remain limited. This study aims to identify key issues, gaps, and innovative practices to improve dietary diversity among tribal communities in Odisha, Jharkhand, and Bihar. A literature review of Indian policies was conducted using data from the World Health Organization Global database on the Implementation of Food and Nutrition Action and the International Food Policy Research Institute libraries, along with the Food System Dashboard. A literature search in PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted in March 2020 to capture relevant nutrition interventions. The results show that despite India’s strong national nutrition policies, Odisha, Jharkhand, and Bihar face high levels of undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among tribal populations. Complex determinants of malnutrition persist in these communities, and empowering them to adopt sustainable, healthy dietary practices rooted in Indigenous food knowledge is crucial. Traditional nutrition programs should be adapted through an Indigenous food systems lens to improve nutritional knowledge and practices. Tailored nutrition communication strategies and identifying key individuals as change agents are essential to promote dietary diversity and improve health outcomes in these regions. Information © The Authors 2025