Drought and survival: A systematic exploration and ethnographic analysis of childhood stunting in Chagai, Baluchistan

Nida Gulshan  Nawaz; Manahel   Azhar

doi:10.71085/sss.04.02.257

Authors

Nida Gulshan Nawaz M. Phil Scholar, Department of Anthropology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan Author
Manahel Azhar Researcher, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), Rawalpindi, Pakistan Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71085/sss.04.02.257

Keywords:

Malnutrition, Drought, Food insecurity, Baluchistan, Stunting, Sociocultural, Ethnographic

Abstract

A systematic and ethnographic analysis of national, regional, and international literature was undertaken from peer-reviewed databases for 2019-2025. The study combines regional data and peer-reviewed literature findings to calculate and examine how extended water scarcity affects the nutritional status leading to malnutrition. Ethnographic analysis revealed that in Chagai, one of the hardest-hit districts, prolonged drought has exacerbated malnutrition, with stunting emerging as a major public health crisis. Various socio-cultural factors made the region more vulnerable and increased the disparities. The qualitative insight indicates how the diminished crop impacts the availability of nutrient-rich food to families. And how the impacts are constructed and perceived at sociocultural levels. However, comparing Chagai’s crisis with similar drought-affected regions also revealed that reduced water access, poor dietary diversity, and maternal malnutrition are key contributors to childhood stunting. The findings from systematic analysis and ethnography indicated that the lack of dietary diversity further increased micronutrient deficiencies, including multivitamins, iron and zinc, and calcium essential for child growth. These factors also permeated the social fabric contributing to weakened immunity and delayed development. Vulnerable populations, including nomadic communities, face complex challenges. The study therefore assesses the critical need for targeted nutrition interventions and drought-resilient agricultural practices.

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