Maternal nutrition at a crossroads in India

Maternal nutrition in India faces a triple burden of undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and rising overweight. Although state-led supplementation and fortification efforts have expanded, dietary quality and gestational weight management remain insufficiently addressed. In addition, addressing overweight among women of reproductive age will require a broader approach than simply focusing on women’s behaviours. A shift toward a triple-duty, life-course approach that includes preconception care is essential to strengthen maternal and child health outcomes.