NFHS-6: 90% Indian babies born in hospitals, significant progress in maternal, child health
The National Family Health Survey-6 (NFHS-6) reveals significant progress in India's maternal and child health. Institutional deliveries rose to 90.6% (from 88.6% in NFHS-5), and 95.6% of infants under six months were breastfed. Child health indicators improved, with stunting declining to 29.3% and severe wasting to 5.2%. Antenatal care coverage increased, with 95.9% of pregnant women receiving care and 54.9% consuming iron-folic acid supplements for 100+ days. However, the survey flagged a sharp increase in caesarean section deliveries to 27.2% (40% in urban areas), exceeding WHO optimal thresholds, and noted persistent challenges from non-communicable diseases and rising obesity.
Key Points
- The NFHS-6 shows that 90.6% of Indian babies are now born in hospitals, a rise from previous surveys.
- Significant improvements were recorded in child health, with a decline in stunting and severe wasting among children under five.
- Maternal health services saw increased coverage for antenatal care and iron-folic acid supplementation during pregnancy.
- Full vaccination coverage for children aged 12-23 months rose to 87.1%.
- The survey highlighted a sharp increase in caesarean section deliveries, reaching 27.2% nationally and 40% in urban areas, exceeding WHO recommendations.
Exam Facts
- The survey is National Family Health Survey-6 (NFHS-6).
- Institutional deliveries reached 90.6%.
- Stunting among children under five declined from 35.5% to 29.3%.
- Caesarean section deliveries increased from 21.5% to 27.2%.
- The survey was conducted by the Health Ministry and the International Institute for Population Sciences.
Read it. Retain it. Recall it.
Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.