Write a short note on the adolescent population.

(i) It constitutes one-fifth of the total population of India i.e., they are in the age group of 10 to 19 years.
(ii) They are the most important resource for the future.
(iii) Nutrition requirements of adolescents are higher than those of a normal child or adult. Poor nutrition can lead to deficiency and stunted growth.
(iv) The diet available to them in India is inadequate in all nutrients.
(v) A large number of adolescent girls suffer from anaemia because they do not get adequate attention at home where more attention is given to male children.