Question

Who are adolescents? Why do they need more attention?

Answer 1

Adolescents are those who come in the age-group of 10 to 19 years. They constitute one-fifth of the total population of India. They need more attention because of the following reasons:
(i) They are the most important resource for the future.
(ii) Nutrition requirements of adolescents are higher than those of a normal child or adult.
(iii) Poor nutrition can lead to deficiency and stunted growth. But the diet available for the Indian adolescents is inadequate in all nutrients. A large number of adolescent girls suffer from anaemia.