According to a recent report called "The State of Food Security and Nutrition," around 34.7% of children under the age of five in India are too short for their age. Additionally, 20% of these children's weight is too low for their height due to malnutrition. Malnourished children are more likely to die from common childhood illnesses caused by bacteria and viruses, such as diarrhea, pneumonia, and malaria.

In the Global Hunger Index 2021, India was ranked 101 out of 116 countries, indicating serious levels of hunger within the country. It is estimated that one-third of the world's hungry population resides in India. Furthermore, in Kolkata, hundreds of thousands of street-connected children receive morning and afternoon meals. However, the restriction on food availability at night leads to these children going hungry and having to sleep on an empty stomach.

Going hungry at night and experiencing an empty stomach have severe effects on children's health and well-being. It impairs their physical and cognitive development, making them more vulnerable to illnesses and infections. Lack of proper nutrition negatively impacts their growth, weakens their immune system, and increases the risk of malnutrition-related diseases. Additionally, hunger and malnutrition can hinder their ability to concentrate, learn, and perform well academically.

The inability to have a nutritious meal at night affects the children's immediate health and has long-term consequences on their overall development. Addressing this issue and ensuring access to adequate and nutritious food for these children is crucial to improving their health, reducing the risk of diseases, and giving them a better chance at a brighter future.

Street Children in Kolkata suffering from malnutrition due lack of availability of food at night. .