The Baseline Survey of the National Nutrition Programme was conducted by ICDDR,B: Centre for Health and Population Research in collaboration with the National Institute of Population Research and Training (NIPORT) and the Institute of Public Health Nutrition (IPHN). The survey provides information on childhood malnutrition (under-2 and 3-5 years old children), nutritional status of adolescent girls, lactating and pregnant women, pregnancy weight gain, birth-weight, and micronutrient status (anaemia, iodine status). The survey also collected data on socioeconomic status, infant feeding, health and nutritional practice of children, adolescent girls, and lactating and pregnant women.

The findings of this report together with other national surveys will enhance the understanding of important issues relating to the HNPSP in Bangladesh. Information from the Baseline Survey can be used for reviewing the progress of programmes and for improving future policies and strategies for the country.

Further analysis of data of the Baseline Survey would be useful. It is hoped that academicians, researchers, and programme personnel will carry out such analysis to provide in-depth information that will guide the future direction and effective implementation of the HNPSP.

ICDDR,B Special Publication no. 124