India’s Impressive Progress in Reducing Child Deaths Recognized by UN

The United Nations recently praised India for its successful efforts in reducing preventable child deaths, calling the country an “exemplar.” The UN highlighted India’s health programs, such as Ayushman Bharat, which have saved millions of young lives through investments in healthcare.

In a report released on Tuesday, the UN mentioned five countries — India, Nepal, Senegal, Ghana, and Burundi — that have made significant progress in reducing child deaths. These countries show that with strong leadership, research-based strategies, and continuous investments, even those facing tough challenges can reduce death rates and improve lives.

The report stated that since the year 2000, India has reduced deaths of children under five by 70% and newborn deaths by 61%. This progress comes from improved health coverage, better health services, and enhanced healthcare facilities.

Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest health insurance scheme, was specifically praised. It offers coverage of nearly USD 5,500 per family each year. All pregnant women can now get free delivery services, including for cesarean sections. New babies receive free medical transportation, medications, and support in public health facilities.

India has also built various healthcare facilities, including homes for pregnant women and units for newborns needing extra care. Additionally, India has trained skilled health workers like midwives and community health workers to ensure that mothers and children receive quality care.

The report noted that countries like Nepal, Senegal, India, Ghana, and Burundi have all achieved better results in reducing child deaths compared to global averages. Their success stories share common features, such as strong healthcare systems that focus on universal services, data-driven decision-making, and innovative funding models to sustain these health programs.

Since 2000, several low- and middle-income countries, including India and Angola, have managed to reduce child mortality significantly. In 2000, India had one of the highest rates of child deaths from measles, with only 56% of infants vaccinated. By 2023, this vaccination rate rose to 93%, and measles-related deaths among kids dropped to just 5,200.

Globally, the number of children dying before their fifth birthday has decreased to 4.8 million in 2023. Even though the decline since 2000 has been impressive, progress has begun to slow down, and many children still die from diseases that can be prevented.

UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said, “Millions of children are alive today because of our commitment to effective health measures, like vaccines and clean water.” However, she warned that without smart policies and proper investments, we might see a rise in preventable child deaths again.