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Socio-economic Differences in Heights of Adult Indian Women

Author

Listed:
  • Brinda Viswanathan

    (Associate Professor at Madras School of Economics (MSE), Chennai.)

  • Viney Sharma

    (Centre for Legislative Research and Advocacy, New Delhi)

Abstract

This study provides additional insights into the nature of variations in heights of adult Indian women based on the demographic and health survey data for the year 2005–06. Though contiguous regions show similar mean heights, the gap between geographic regions reduce once socio-economic differences are accounted for. While teenage child birth, wealth differences and caste affiliations are some of the key variables that explain the gaps in mean heights, better educational attainment reduces these gaps and has also contributed to temporal gains in heights.

Suggested Citation

  • Brinda Viswanathan & Viney Sharma, 2009. "Socio-economic Differences in Heights of Adult Indian Women," Journal of Developing Societies, , vol. 25(4), pages 421-455, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jodeso:v:25:y:2009:i:4:p:421-455
    DOI: 10.1177/0169796X0902500402
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    References listed on IDEAS

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