India’s Progress in Reducing Child Mortality Rates

The United Nations Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) recently brought into light India’s notable achievements in reducing childhood mortality and stillbirth rates. The 2024 report shows that India has made strides since 2000. The under-five mortality rate has dropped by 70 per cent. The neonatal mortality rate has also seen a decline of 61 per cent. In terms of stillbirths, India achieved a reduction of 60.4 per cent, surpassing the global average of 37 per cent.

Overview of UN IGME

The UN IGME is a collaborative initiative involving UNICEF, WHO, the World Bank, and the United Nations Population Division. It aims to provide reliable data on child mortality across 195 countries. The annual report “Levels and Trends in Child Mortality” serves as a vital resource for understanding global health trends.

Global Context of Child Mortality

Since 2000, the global under-five mortality rate has decreased by 52 per cent. This decline reflects extensive investments and collaborative efforts by governments, communities, and international partners. Despite these advancements, in 2023, approximately 4.8 million children died before reaching the age of five.

Causes of Child Mortality

The primary causes of child mortality are preventable. Many deaths stem from inadequate access to healthcare, poor nutrition, and lack of protection. Vulnerable groups, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected areas, face the highest risks. Socio-economic status influences survival chances.

India’s Position in Global Rankings

India ranks seventh among the top ten countries for the highest reduction in stillbirths. This achievement is crucial in the global context, where many countries struggle to make similar progress. India’s efforts reflect targeted health interventions and government policies aimed at improving maternal and child health.

Challenges Ahead

Despite substantial progress, challenges remain. The slowing rate of improvement indicates that ongoing efforts are necessary. Millions of children still face preventable deaths. Addressing inequalities in healthcare access is critical for sustaining and enhancing the gains made.

Future Directions

To continue reducing child mortality, India must focus on strengthening healthcare systems. Investing in maternal health and nutrition is essential. Collaboration with international organisations can further enhance the effectiveness of interventions.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the impact of socio-economic factors on child mortality rates in India.
2. Discuss in the light of recent data, the global trends in child mortality and their implications for public health policies.
3. Critically discuss the role of international organisations in addressing child mortality and stillbirth rates globally.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the significance of maternal health in reducing child mortality rates.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the impact of socio-economic factors on child mortality rates in India.

1. Poverty limits access to healthcare and nutrition, increasing child mortality risks.
2. Education level of parents, especially mothers, correlates with better health outcomes for children.
3. Urban-rural disparities affect healthcare availability, with rural areas often facing higher mortality rates.
4. Social determinants such as caste and gender can influence access to healthcare services.
5. Nutrition and food security, often tied to socio-economic status, directly impact child health and survival.

2. Discuss in the light of recent data, the global trends in child mortality and their implications for public health policies.

1. Global under-five mortality rate has decreased by 52% since 2000, indicating progress but also denoting disparities.
2. 4.8 million children died before age five in 2023, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.
3. Preventable causes dominate child mortality, necessitating policies focused on healthcare access and nutrition.
4. Investment in health systems and maternal care is crucial for sustaining progress in child survival rates.
5. Public health policies must address inequalities in healthcare access, especially in fragile settings.

3. Critically discuss the role of international organisations in addressing child mortality and stillbirth rates globally.

1. UNICEF, WHO, and the World Bank collaborate to provide data and resources for child health improvements.
2. International organisations facilitate funding and support for health interventions in low-income countries.
3. They advocate for policy changes and best practices to reduce child mortality and improve maternal health.
4. Global partnerships enhance knowledge sharing and capacity building among nations for better health outcomes.
5. Monitoring and reporting by these organisations help track progress and identify areas needing attention.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the significance of maternal health in reducing child mortality rates.

1. Improved maternal health leads to better birth outcomes, reducing neonatal mortality rates .
2. Access to prenatal and postnatal care is crucial; countries with strong maternal health programs report lower child mortality.
3. For example, India’s initiatives like Janani Suraksha Yojana have enhanced maternal healthcare access, improving child survival.
4. Education on nutrition and family planning empowers mothers, leading to healthier pregnancies and infants.
5. Maternal health interventions address preventable causes of death, ultimately benefiting child health outcomes.