6 reasons why India’s Vitamin D deficiency is a hidden health emergency 

Despite the fact that India is a sun-rich country many people are battling a Vitamin D crisis. A new meta-analysis by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) and ANVKA Foundation reveals that one in five Indians is Vitamin D deficient. In the Eastern region, that number jumps to a staggering 38.81 percent.

Those most affected include children, adolescents, pregnant women, and the elderly. At a global hybrid event attended by several experts, doctors, policymakers, and industry leaders, the findings sparked serious concern, calling for urgent intervention.

Here’s why this silent epidemic is affecting many, and what the experts say needs to be done:

Also read | Signs and symptoms of vitamin D deficiency

• Vitamin D deficiency: Urbanisation, pollution, and modern indoor lifestyles have cut us off from natural sunlight, the best source of Vitamin D. Between long hours indoors, high-rise buildings, and a growing screen-time culture, most Indians aren’t getting the sun exposure they need.

“Despite abundant sunshine, our modern lives have cut us off from nature’s most powerful source of Vitamin D. This deficiency weakens immunity, increases the risk of chronic diseases, and is a silent driver of our healthcare burden,” said Dr Aashish Chaudhry, Managing Director of Aakash Healthcare and co-author of the study.

• Diets falling short: Foods naturally rich in Vitamin D, like oily fish, eggs, and fortified dairy, are either too expensive or simply not part of most Indian diets. Many people also suffer from lactose intolerance or follow vegetarian diets that exclude key sources. According to the study, only 8–14 percent of Indians meet recommended dairy intake. “Affordability and accessibility are major barriers. This nutritional gap hits vulnerable communities the hardest,” said Dr Arpita Mukherjee, Professor at ICRIER.

Also read | Fatigue, depression, weak bones? Here are 5 best ways to increase Vitamin D in your body

• Cultural and biological factors: Darker skin produces less Vitamin D with the same amount of sunlight. Cultural practices like wearing full-body clothing, avoiding tanning, and regular use of sunscreen further reduce sun exposure. “Melanin-rich skin needs up to six times more sun exposure to make the same amount of Vitamin D. Unfortunately, cultural norms often discourage this,” noted Dr Chaudhry.

• Cost matters: Vitamin D testing can cost Rs. 1,500 or more in private labs, and supplements range from Rs. 48 to 130 for just ten tablets, still unaffordable for many. The 18 percent GST on supplements further limits access. “There is an urgent need to reduce the cost of both testing and supplements. Without affordable solutions, early diagnosis and treatment remain out of reach,” said Dr Mukherjee.

• No strong policy: India currently lacks a nationwide program to combat Vitamin D deficiency. Food fortification is voluntary, and most school meal programs don’t include Vitamin D-rich items like eggs or fortified milk. “India needs a roadmap akin to its iodised salt success—mandatory fortification, subsidies, and awareness campaigns. Voluntary measures won’t curb this crisis,” said Deepak Mishra, Director and Chief Executive of ICRIER.

Also read | Battling vitamin D deficiency: Simple steps to soak up sunlight and boost your well-being

• Far-reaching impact: Vitamin D isn’t just about bone health. Low levels are linked to fatigue, muscle weakness, depression, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and even certain cancers. Left unchecked, the deficiency could trigger a surge in preventable illnesses. “Vitamin D deficiency is a silent epidemic affecting millions, yet it remains largely overlooked. Tackling this crisis requires a unified effort, through fortified nutrition, awareness, and strong public health strategies,” said Dr Chaudhry.

The report recommends nine urgent interventions; from mandatory fortification of staple foods and free supplements for high-risk groups, to cutting GST on Vitamin D products and launching nationwide awareness campaigns. “This analysis is a wake-up call. Without data-driven policies, India risks falling short of its Sustainable Development Goals on health and nutrition,” said Dr Mukherjee.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.