Public Health Nutrition: Challenges and Opportunities in the 21st Century

Public health nutrition is one of  most critical determinants of population well-being in the 21st century. Across the globe, and particularly in India, communities face a complex double burden of malnutrition—where undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies continue to persist, even as obesity and non-communicable diseases rise at alarming rates. At the same time, opportunities exist to harness scientific research, evidence-based policy, indigenous knowledge, and innovative technologies to build healthier and more resilient societies.

This edited volume, “Public Health Nutrition: Challenges and Opportunities in the  21st Century,” is an outcome of collective scholarly effort. The contributing chapters cover a wide spectrum of issues—ranging from nutrition epidemiology, maternal and child health, and the first 1,000 days of life, to adolescent and geriatric nutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, obesity, and lifestyle diseases. Policy interventions such as POSHAN Abhiyaan, ICDS, and the Mid-Day Meal Scheme are critically analyzed, while sustainable solutions including fortification, kitchen gardens, indigenous food systems, and the role of millets are highlighted. The volume also emphasizes the importance of nutrition education, behavior change communication, and the transformative role of digital technologies in shaping the future of nutrition practice and policy.

Bringing together contributions from academicians, researchers, and practitioners across diverse disciplines, this book provides both theoretical perspectives and practical insights. It is my sincere hope that the volume will serve as a valuable resource for students, teachers, researchers, health professionals, and policymakers, and that it will inspire dialogue, research, and action to advance public health nutrition in India and beyond.