According to ICMR-NIN guidelines, what is the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of calcium for a 9-year-old child?

Correct option is C

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research – National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) 2020 guidelines, the RDA of calcium for children aged 1–9 years is 600 mg/day. Calcium is essential for bone formation and skeletal development, particularly during periods of rapid growth in children. A proper calcium intake ensures bone strength and prevents disorders like rickets. The RDA increases to 800 mg/day after 10 years of age due to puberty-associated growth spurts.
Explanation of Each Option:
(a) 200 mg per day This value is significantly below the recommended level. A 200 mg intake is inadequate for supporting the calcium needs of a 9-year-old child and can result in poor bone mineralization, increasing the risk of rickets and bone deformities.
(b) 400 mg per day Though higher than 200 mg, this is still insufficient to meet the growing needs of a child in this age group. It may contribute to chronic calcium deficiency over time, affecting bone health and growth.
(c) 600 mg per day This is the correct RDA as per ICMR-NIN for children aged 1–9 years. It supports optimal bone development and maintenance of normal physiological functions requiring calcium, such as muscle contraction and nerve transmission.
(d) 800 mg per day This value represents the RDA for children aged 10 years and above, when calcium demand increases due to the adolescent growth spurt. While not harmful, it exceeds the recommended level for a 9-year-old and is not considered appropriate for this age.