Malnutrition and poor health status especially in rural areas is a common problem. It retards children growth, increases the risk and duration of illness, reduces work output, and slows social and mental development. Malnutrition among women of reproductive age increases the risk of mortality during labor and delivery and puts their newly born children at risk of long-term deficiencies. Improving nutritional status, including micronutrient status, can lead to increased productivity, increased child survival and growth, and reduced maternal morbidity and mortality. | Household food security through kitchen gardening in rural areas of western Uttar Pradesh, India
