Child Mortality in India
Child mortality is a significant problem in India, although the country has made some progress in reducing child mortality rates over the years. According to the latest available data from the Sample Registration System Statistical Report 2018, the infant mortality rate (IMR) in India was 32 per 1,000 live births, while the under-five mortality rate (U5MR) was 36 per 1,000 live births.
The causes of child mortality in India are numerous and complex, and vary by region and socioeconomic status. However, some of the most common causes of child mortality in India include:
- Neonatal mortality: This refers to deaths that occur within the first 28 days of life. The major causes of neonatal mortality in India are preterm birth, low birth weight, and infections such as sepsis and pneumonia.
- Pneumonia: Pneumonia is a leading cause of death among children under the age of five in India, accounting for approximately 15% of all under-five deaths. Poor nutrition, indoor air pollution, and lack of access to healthcare are contributing factors to the high incidence of pneumonia in India.
- Diarrhea: Diarrhea is another common cause of death among children under five in India, particularly in rural areas with poor sanitation and hygiene. Lack of access to clean water and proper sanitation, as well as poor nutrition, are contributing factors to the high incidence of diarrhea in India.
- Malnutrition: Malnutrition is a major underlying factor in many child deaths in India. According to the National Family Health Survey 5, around 35% of children under five are stunted (low height-for-age), and around 17% are wasted (low weight-for-height).
- Other causes: Other significant causes of child mortality in India include malaria, tuberculosis, injuries, and congenital anomalies.
Efforts to reduce child mortality in India include programs such as the National Health Mission, which focuses on improving maternal and child health services, and the Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illness program, which aims to improve the quality of healthcare for children. However, more needs to be done to address the underlying causes of child mortality in India, including improving access to healthcare, sanitation, and nutrition.
Initiatives by GOI
|
Initiative |
Objective |
Year launched |
|
National Health Mission |
To improve access to quality healthcare services, including maternal and child healthcare |
2013 |
|
Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illness |
To improve the quality of healthcare services for children |
2005 |
|
Janani Suraksha Yojana |
To promote institutional delivery and reduce maternal and infant mortality |
2005 |
|
Mission Indradhanush |
To increase vaccination coverage and reduce vaccine-preventable diseases |
2014 |
|
Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana |
To provide financial assistance to pregnant women and lactating mothers for their first two live births |
2017 |
|
National Nutrition Mission |
To address the problem of malnutrition among children and women |
2017 |
|
Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram |
To provide comprehensive healthcare to children aged 0-18 years |
2013
|
These initiatives are implemented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, in collaboration with state governments and various stakeholders. They aim to improve the quality and accessibility of healthcare services for children and mothers, increase vaccination coverage, and address the problem of malnutrition. By focusing on these key areas, the government hopes to reduce child mortality rates in India and improve the overall health and wellbeing of children.
