National Nutrition Week
1 – 7 September 2025
At TIGS, we are committed to developing nutritionally rich crops that can contribute towards sustainable nutrition security. We observe this year’s Nutrition Week to spread awareness on common nutrition deficiencies and how we can address those sustainably.
Each day we plan to raise awareness on the widespread prevalence of nutrient deficiencies. This promotes education and actions toward improving nutritional status, preventing deficiency-related diseases, and ensuring a healthier future.
Day 1 – Fact sheet on Vitamins
Vitamins are organic compounds essential in small amounts for normal metabolic functions, which the body cannot synthesize sufficiently and must obtain from the diet. There are 4 fat-soluble and 9 water-soluble vitamins. While all of them are crucial for optimal health, deficiencies in certain vitamins are prevalent in the general population.
Our day 1 focus is on Vitamins A, D, B9, and B12—essential nutrients that play a vital role in health, yet are still lacking in adequate levels for much of India’s population.
Day 2 – Fact sheet on Minerals
Minerals are inorganic elements, essential for normal physiological functions such as building bones, regulating heartbeat, and supporting enzymes and hormones. They are classified into two categories based on the amount needed by the body: Macronutrients (Ca, Na,..) and Micronutrients (Zn, Fe,..)
Our day 2 focus is on essential Minerals, Iron Zinc and Calcium.
Day 3 – Fact sheet on Proteins
Studies reveal that over 70% of Indian households consume less protein than recommended, despite the availability of protein-rich foods such as pulses, dairy products, and eggs. This shortfall is mainly due to reliance on cereal-based diets, cultural food preferences, limited awareness, and economic factors.
Our day 3 focus is on the significant issue of protein insufficiency in everyday diets.
Day 4 – Fact sheet on Carbohydrates and Glycemic Index
Carbohydrates fuel our bodies, but eating the wrong carbs may quietly harm us over time. Many of us consume refined staples and sugary treats that cause blood sugar spikes and crashes – making us feel tired and hungry again soon after eating. This rollercoaster effect stresses our bodies and may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, a condition affecting millions of families across India today.
Choosing the right carbs – like millets, whole grains, lentils, and fresh fruits – helps keep blood sugar steady, boosts lasting energy, and supports healthier lives.
Our day 4 focus is on the impact of high-glycemic foods and promoting healthier carbohydrate choices to help curb diabetes.
Day 5 – Fact sheet on Balanced Diets
As the National Nutrition Week comes to a close, let’s remember the vital message: our daily food choices shape our long-term health. Ultra-processed foods, loaded with artificial ingredients, sugars, and unhealthy fats, may be convenient but can lead to serious health risks if eaten regularly. Instead, aim for a balanced diet rich in whole grains, colorful fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Making mindful decisions – reading labels, preparing more meals at home, and limiting packaged and fast food – can protect against chronic diseases and boost overall well-being. This week is not just a campaign, but a call to action for lifelong healthy habits.
Our day 5 focus is on the on the importance of having a balanced diet.
Together, let’s champion nutrition by fueling our bodies with real, nourishing foods and spreading awareness to build healthier communities. Nutrition Week may end, but the journey to better health through smart eating continues every day!
