Quantifying the stunting gap: a decomposition analysis of indigenous and remaining population in India

This study aims to measure the variables that account for the difference in stunting across indigenous and remaining populations. Using data from fifth phase of the National Family Health Survey, this study analyzed 178,664 children, employing logistic regression and the Fairlie decomposition technique to quantify the disparities in stunting. Results show a 5.52% point stunting gap, with significant differences across background characteristics. Household wealth and maternal education accounted for 36% and 35% of stunting inequality, respectively. Addressing this gap is imperative to reducing the overall burden of child stunting and achieving equitable health outcomes in India.