India is witnessing an alarming increase in its infant mortality rate (IMR), with new data revealing a disturbing upward trend in the number of infants dying before their first birthday. Despite several public health initiatives and government efforts over the years to combat infant deaths, recent statistics highlight that the IMR in India has risen in certain regions, indicating significant challenges in improving child health.
As per the latest report from the National Health Mission, India’s infant mortality rate stood at 31 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2023, showing a slight increase from 28 in 2022. While the national average remains lower than it was in the past, disparities between states are growing, with rural areas and underdeveloped regions seeing a disproportionate number of infant deaths.
Experts point to several contributing factors for the rise, including inadequate access to healthcare, poor prenatal and postnatal care, malnutrition, and the lack of proper vaccination coverage in some regions. The COVID-19 pandemic, which placed immense pressure on India’s healthcare system, further exacerbated the situation, leading to delays in essential maternal and child healthcare services.
According to Dr. Anjali Sharma, a pediatrician in Delhi, “The IMR is a crucial indicator of a country’s healthcare system, and the rising numbers reflect gaps that need urgent attention. Malnutrition, particularly in remote villages, and the lack of skilled birth attendants in rural areas are major contributors to the high mortality rates. Inadequate sanitation and a lack of proper healthcare infrastructure in these regions are also causes for concern.”
One of the most concerning trends is the growing number of neonatal deaths caused by preventable conditions such as infections, respiratory issues, and complications during childbirth. In addition, a lack of awareness about essential health practices among pregnant women in underserved areas continues to pose significant risks.
The government has launched multiple initiatives to reduce IMR, such as the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) and the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK), aimed at improving maternal and child health services. However, health experts believe that a more holistic and community-based approach is necessary to tackle the root causes of infant mortality.
Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, emphasized, “We are committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of reducing infant mortality by focusing on universal healthcare coverage and improving infrastructure in rural areas.” However, some experts argue that more attention is needed in specific regions where IMR rates are disproportionately high.
In addition to government efforts, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society groups are working to raise awareness about infant care and vaccination. They emphasize the importance of early interventions, regular health checkups, and vaccination to prevent diseases that commonly affect infants.
With the continued rise in infant mortality, there is an urgent need for a concerted effort to improve healthcare accessibility, especially in rural and underserved areas. The government, in collaboration with healthcare professionals and community organizations, must accelerate efforts to ensure that every infant has access to the care they need to survive and thrive in their crucial early years.
As India moves forward, addressing the root causes of infant mortality and ensuring equitable access to healthcare will be key to reversing this disturbing trend and safeguarding the future of its youngest citizens.
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