Effectiveness of NGO‐government partnership to prevent and treat child wasting in urban India

The study evaluates a community-based nutrition program addressing child wasting in urban informal settlements in India. Conducted in collaboration with governmental and non-profit organizations, the program focused on identifying, preventing, and treating wasting in children under three. The intervention encompassed monthly growth monitoring, home-based counseling, and referrals to healthcare facilities. Severely wasted children were provided ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF) for rehabilitation.

Results revealed a moderate success rate: 42.4% of severely wasted children recovered within three months, meeting international weight-gain benchmarks. However, recovery rates for moderately wasted children were lower than expected. Key challenges included community attrition, limited caregiver compliance, and logistical barriers to accessing therapeutic foods. Preventive measures such as community education, immunization drives, and nutritional counseling demonstrated effectiveness in reducing new cases of wasting.

The study emphasizes the importance of integrating community-driven initiatives with public health systems to enhance program reach and impact. Recommendations include strengthening family engagement, improving communication on malnutrition risks, and involving local influencers to sustain long-term benefits. Future efforts should aim to build sustainable community ownership and support government capacity to prevent and manage child malnutrition.