Structural barriers to infant nutrition among tribal communities in South India

Malnutrition poses a persistent public health challenge, particularly among India’s marginalised tribal communities. This case series explores four instances of severe acute malnutrition in infants from remote tribal communities in south India, highlighting intersecting social determinants, such as maternal illiteracy, unrecognised pregnancy, teenage motherhood, financial insecurity and limited access to antenatal care. Through these cases, we underscore the complex web of structural and cultural barriers that hinder effective nutritional practices and timely healthcare utilisation. The findings emphasise the urgent need for community-sensitive, targeted interventions in maternal health awareness and child nutrition support.