Child Death Rate: Child mortality rate is one of the most sensitive indicators of the health system and social equality of any country. The under-5 mortality rate in India has been falling steadily, but recent government data shows that wide disparities still exist between religious communities. Shocking figures have emerged in NFHS-5, MoSPI’s latest report and the Children in India 2025 report of the Government of India. Let us know which religion’s children lose their lives the most.

total child mortality rate in india

According to the Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation and national surveys, India has made considerable progress in reducing child deaths. Infant mortality rate to decline from 44 per 1,000 live births in 2011 to 25 by 2023. Similarly, the death rate of children under 5 years of age decreased from 45 in 2014 to 31 in 2021. Let us tell you that many of these states have already achieved the target of less than 25 by 2025.

Death rate is higher among Hindu children

NFHS-5 data analysis for 2019-21 shows that Hindu children have historically had a higher under-5 mortality rate than Muslim children. The under-5 mortality rate among Hindus has been estimated at approximately 41.9 deaths per 1000 live births. Within the Hindu population, the risk is much higher among Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. The rates here can reach around Rs 50 per 1000.

Mortality rate low among Muslim children

Let us tell you that the mortality rate of children below 5 years of age is lower among Muslim children as compared to Hindu children. Research based on NFHS data shows that the chances of survival of Muslim children are 17 to 18% higher than that of Hindu children. This trend has been seen continuously in many surveys.

Deaths of newborn babies are the biggest challenge

The first month of life is the most important time in all religions. Current estimates suggest that 50% to 73% of deaths under the age of 5 years occur in the neonatal period. Premature birth, low birth weight and lack of timely medical help are the biggest reasons for death. Poverty and low maternal education can increase the risk of infant mortality by two and a half times, regardless of religion.

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