Year: 2026 | Month: June | Volume 16 | Issue 1
Food Security, Dietary Diversity and Nutritional Outcomes in Bhagalpur, Bihar
Rajlaxmi
DOI:June
Abstract:
This study examines the interlinkages between food security, dietary diversity, and nutritional outcomes in Bhagalpur district of Bihar using a combination of primary household survey data and secondary sources such as NFHS-5 and NSSO. The analysis employs descriptive statistics, multiple regression, and logistic regression models to identify key socio-economic determinants of dietary diversity and malnutrition. The findings reveal that the average Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS) remains moderate but insufficient to ensure nutritional adequacy. Econometric results indicate that income, education, and landholding size significantly enhance dietary diversity, while household size and limited market access negatively affect it. Logistic regression estimates further demonstrate that higher dietary diversity substantially reduces the probability of child malnutrition, alongside improvements in sanitation and healthcare access. The study highlights that existing food security interventions, such as the Public Distribution System (PDS), have a positive but limited impact on dietary diversification. Overall, the results underscore the need for integrated, nutrition-sensitive policies that address both economic and structural constraints to improve food and nutritional security in Bhagalpur and similar regions.
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