India, Nov. 3 -- On a recent morning at Sadanandpur village in Sapaul district of Bihar, Sarita Devi is cradling in her arms her two-year-old daughter Pinki, who is smaller than her age would suggest, her skin stretched tight over bones. Pinki is at an age when she should be walking and running; but most of the time, she just sleeps in the arms of her equally weak mother.

Opposite Devi's hut is a ramshackle single-storey concrete structure with a roof , but no walls, surrounded by paddy fields; this is the hot meal distribution centre (anganwadi). It is not operational due to rains and is being used to dry clothes. "No children have come today due to rains," explains Devi who serves as the centre's cook. She is paid Rs.1,200 every month ...