Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and philanthropist, has highlighted that malnutrition is currently the world's most severe child health crisis and that climate change will exacerbate the situation. According to a recent report from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, climate change is expected to increase cases of stunted growth and wasting among children significantly by 2050.

India's role in global health and philanthropy

Gates also noted that India’s advancements in health innovations, such as anaemia treatments, could benefit other countries, especially in Africa. He praised the rise of philanthropy in India, including contributions from tech leaders and businesses, and highlighted the country's role in vaccine distribution, which has significantly impacted global health.

Climate change's impact on malnutrition

The Gates Foundation’s report projects that by 2050, an additional 40 million children will experience stunted growth, and 28 million more will suffer from wasting due to the effects of climate change. Gates explained that climate-related disruptions to food systems, such as droughts and excessive rainfall, are major contributors to these outcomes. "Around 90% of the negative effect of climate change works through the food system," Gates noted.

Gates called for more investment in nutrition, emphasizing the need for new platforms like the Child Nutrition Fund, led by UNICEF, to coordinate donor financing. He stressed that this funding should not come at the expense of other crucial initiatives, such as routine childhood vaccinations. Gates also highlighted the importance of research into nutrition, comparing its potential impact to that of vaccines in improving child health.

India’s efforts in combating malnutrition

In the 2024 Goalkeepers Report, Gates praised India for its strong efforts to address malnutrition, awarding the country an “A” for its dedication. He commended India’s use of innovative programs like the public feeding scheme and the Midday Meal Scheme to distribute fortified foods. Despite the progress, Gates acknowledged that India still faces significant challenges in overcoming malnutrition.

Gates also emphasized the critical need for continued focus on nutrition and climate resilience to address the growing global malnutrition crisis.