Key Points
A pro-poor policy environment:
The pro-poor ideology underpinning the Maoist insurgency influenced a succession of governments to address the needs of historically marginalized citizens.Donor involvement:
Multilaterals, bilaterals, and NGOs have actively contributed both financing and technical support to major initiatives that have impacted childhood nutrition.Decentralization:
Decentralization of authority from the central government to local government and local organizations (e.g., Village Development Committees, Mothers’ Groups) have helped to adapt development programs to the needs of diverse, often remote communities.Women’s empowerment:
The elevated status of and attention paid to women has led to significant improvements in women’s health, reduced fertility, higher levels of education, and an increased role in making household decisions.