Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh Record Highest Infant Mortality Rates in India

According to the Sample Registration System (SRS) 2024 report, although infant mortality rates have shown a decline, concern remains high due to neonatal mortality standing at 26 per 1,000 live births.

This means 26 newborns die within 28 days of birth. Experts suggest that poor pregnancy care and maternal malnutrition are major contributing factors. Additionally, limited availability of cesarean delivery facilities—only in about 140 government hospitals—adds to the risk.

Madhya Pradesh has an infant mortality rate of 35 per 1,000 live births, making it the second-highest after Uttar Pradesh. Approximately 52,000 infants die within 28 days of birth each year in the state.

The state also has the worst child mortality rate in India, with 41 deaths per 1,000 children under the age of five. The national average is 28, while Chhattisgarh ranks second with 39.

Major causes include diseases, malnutrition, incomplete vaccination coverage, and weak immunity among children. These factors continue to pose a serious public health challenge in the region.