NSO Releases 'Nutritional Intake in India' Report (2022–24)

On 2nd July 2025, the National Statistics Office (NSO) released its latest report Nutritional Intake in India, based on back-to-back Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys (HCES) conducted from August 2022 to July 2024.

Key Points

Stable Average Intake: Calorie, protein, and fat intake remained broadly stable across rural and urban areas over the two years surveyed.
Rural vs Urban Calorie Intake: In 2023–24, rural India recorded 2,212 Kcal/day per capita, while urban India showed 2,240 Kcal/day — a marginal decline from 2022–23.
Protein and Fat Intake: Daily protein intake was around 62g (rural) and 63g (urban); fat intake was 60g (rural) and 70g (urban), showing little year-to-year variation.
Nutrition Mirrors Wealth Levels: Calorie intake increased with household expenditure. The top 5% expenditure group in 2023–24 consumed 3,092 Kcal/day (urban) vs. 1,696 Kcal/day in the bottom 5%.
Decade-Long Trend: Since 2009–10, both calorie and protein intake have risen modestly, reflecting gradual improvement in household nutrition.
Changing Protein Sources: The share of protein from cereals declined (~14% in rural, ~12% in urban), replaced by meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, indicating diet diversification.
Adjusted Estimates: Adjusted intake (excluding non-household consumption) was slightly lower. Rural adjusted intake for 2023–24 was 2,191 Kcal/day.
Persistent Inequalities: Despite overall progress, disparities remain in nutritional access between income groups, underscoring the need for targeted food and nutrition programs.