Girl Child Discrimination and Child Stunting in India: What Can be Done?

Abstract

This study examines the extent of differences in the level of child stunting between boys and girls in India. Two explanations of the gap in stunting are tested using data from National Family Health Survey. Both log-linear and generalised ordinal regression methods were employed to analyse the data. The findings suggest a two-pronged approach to close the stunting gap: encouraging women’s education and improving sanitation through universal supply of toilet facilities and clean and portable water.