Iodised salt continues to play a crucial role in protecting public health in India by helping prevent iodine deficiency disorder (IDD), a condition that can have serious effects on mental and physical development. Health experts note that salt, being a daily household staple, remains the most effective medium for iodine delivery under the Universal Salt Iodisation (USI) programme.
According to the India Iodine Survey 2018–19, about 76.3 per cent of Indian households consume adequately iodised salt containing at least 15 parts per million of iodine. However, the survey also highlighted gaps in awareness, with only 22.4 per cent of people correctly understanding the benefits of iodised salt, even though a majority were aware that iodine deficiency can cause goitre. Medical guidelines underline iodine’s importance across all age groups. The Indian Council of Medical Research and the National Institute of Nutrition recommend daily iodine intake of 140 micrograms for adults and adolescents, higher amounts for pregnant and lactating women, and age-specific doses for children. Adequate iodine intake is especially critical during pregnancy and early childhood, as deficiency during these stages can lead to miscarriages, hypothyroidism, and long-term cognitive impairment in children.
Experts also stress iodine’s role in thyroid function and metabolism, which supports overall well-being. Since its launch in 1983, Tata Salt has been a key contributor to India’s efforts to address IDD by making iodised salt widely available. Public health officials say sustained awareness and continued use of iodised salt remain essential to secure the country’s nutritional future.