The purpose of this paper is to address the gaps in infant and young child feeding practices in India that need improvement to meet the goals set forth in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-2, Zero Hunger). There are many factors that impact infant and young child feeding practices in India and strategic interventions are required to address the same.
A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to see the studies that have been done in India and Low-middle-income countries on infant and young child feeding practices. While for knowledge, attitude and practices, the review was done by having inclusion and exclusion criteria to ascertain that relevant studies are not missed in the review, which would be of significance; however, this is not a systematic review study.
Review of the studies done in India related to factors associated with positive and negative correlation with optimal infant and young child feeding practices. The review highlights that despite satisfactory knowledge level of mothers, it may not translate into actual correct infant and young child feeding practices. Hence, the paper looks at specific socio-demographic, cultural barriers and facilitators. A comprehensive overview of the Government of India schemes and programmes to protect, promote and support breastfeeding and complementary feeding.
This paper outlines the convergent actions required to improve infant and young child feeding practices.
