Social and Economic Susceptibility and Undernourishment of Reproductive-Age Women in North-East India's Tribal Community

Barnita Das, Indian Statistical Institute
Punit Mishra, Population Council
Laishram Ladusingh, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
Nandita Saikia, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)

This study examines the relationship between women aged 15-49 and malnutrition, specifically undernutrition and obesity, as well as the socioeconomic vulnerability of the tribal community in North-East India. Based on variables like education, housing, insurance, and access to basic amenities, a Socioeconomic Vulnerability Index (SeVI) was computed using data from the National Family Health Survey 2019–21 (NFHS–5). Women's Body Mass Index (BMI) was examined as the main outcome, and districts were assigned scores and mapped using GIS software. The wealth quintile significantly influenced socioeconomic vulnerability and malnutrition, according to multinomial logistic regression, which also showed that wealthier women had a higher chance of obesity. In order to enhance the nutritional health of tribal women, the study emphasizes the necessity for tailored approaches that address socioeconomic and cultural challenges.

Keywords: Gender Dynamics, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, The Demography of Indigenous Populations, Population and Development

See extended abstract.