In a recent interview Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates applauded India for its exceptional efforts to tackle malnutrition, awarding the country an impressive “A” grade for its dedication to this critical issue. Gates commented on India’s strong focus on addressing malnutrition despite its income level, citing innovative systems like the public feeding programme and the Midday Meal Scheme as key components of the country’s strategy.
Gates emphasized that while India has made notable strides, challenges remain. “I would give India an A for focus on the problem,” Gates said, noting that India’s commitment to combating malnutrition surpasses that of many other nations. His remarks came during the launch of the Gates Foundation’s 2024 Goalkeepers Report, which assesses progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and highlights the importance of addressing malnutrition.
The Gates Foundation, a leading funder in this area, is advancing research on the microbiome—the bacteria in the gut—and its impact on malnutrition, including deficiencies in vitamins and protein that affect children’s development. Gates stressed the long-term consequences of malnutrition, explaining that inadequate brain development and physical growth in early childhood can have lasting effects, limiting future economic potential.
Gates also pointed to the significant role of India’s private sector in developing cost-effective solutions, such as anaemia treatments, which hold promise for other regions, particularly Africa. He praised India’s health innovations and their potential to serve as models for global programs in the future.
Reflecting on India’s role in global health, Gates highlighted the period from 2000 to 2019 as a “miracle” due to the widespread distribution of vaccines, particularly for rotavirus and pneumococcus. India not only adopted these vaccines but also emerged as a major manufacturer, contributing to lower costs and increased availability for developing countries through GAVI, a global vaccine alliance.
In addition to his praise for India’s health initiatives, Gates acknowledged the growing impact of philanthropy in the country. He noted the contributions of tech leaders and businesses to health initiatives, including the fight against malnutrition, and recognized long-time partners such as the Tata Trusts and Nandan Nilekani. Gates observed that the landscape of Indian philanthropy has expanded significantly over the past decade, reflecting a broader commitment to addressing global health challenges.
