Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. After six months, as an infant’s nutritional needs increase, complementary foods should be introduced. The WHO estimates that around 1.3 million infant deaths globally could be prevented annually through optimal breastfeeding practices. In India, particularly in rural areas, children continue to suffer from malnutrition despite government efforts. This study aims to provide insights into optimal feeding practices and informed interventions to improve nutrition in early childhood by emphasizing the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, and continuous education and support for mothers.

Methodology: The study was conducted in the OPD and Pediatric Ward of Parwati Clinic and Research Centre, Deoghar, Jharkhand from January 2022 to September 2022. The study employed a cross-sectional observational design. A total of 250 children were included: 200 undernourished children (cases) and 50 healthy children (controls). Data was gathered through a structured proforma.

Results: 57.6% children were continuing breast feeding at the time of interview (Table 1). Findings reveal that 38% children develop Grade I, 22% Grade II, 21% Grade III and 19% Grade IV malnutrition according to IAP classification.

Conclusion: Improper infant feeding practices like deprivation from colostrum, lack of exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, and prolonged breastfeeding with improper complementary feed after 6 months play an important role in initiating and sustaining a vicious cycle of malnutrition.