India has made significant strides in maternal and child health, nutrition, and financial protection, as per a report referencing the National Family Health Survey 6 (NFHS‑6). The report highlighted a notable increase in institutional deliveries to 90.6% and antenatal care coverage reaching 95.9%. Additionally, first-trimester antenatal care rose from 70% to 76.2%.
The survey revealed that vaccine coverage for children aged 12–23 months remained consistently high, above 96%. Moreover, 95.6% of children received most vaccinations through public health facilities. Notably, the uptake of the Rotavirus vaccine increased to 85.4% from 36.4%, and second-dose measles coverage surged to 71.8% from 58.6%.
Child nutrition also showed improvement, with stunting among under-fives decreasing to 29.3% from 35.5%, and severe wasting dropping to 5.2% from 7.7%. The report noted enhancements in infant and young child feeding practices, with the percentage of children aged 6-8 months receiving solid or semi-solid food along with breastmilk rising from 45.9% to 59.5%.
Furthermore, the survey indicated progress in women’s empowerment, with a significant increase in internet usage among women, rising from 33.3% to 64.3%. It was observed that 89% of women now have a bank or savings account, up from 78.6%, and the percentage of women owning a mobile phone increased from 53.9% to 63.6%.
The findings underscore India’s steady advancement towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, according to the Finland-based media house. By focusing on convergence, last-mile delivery, and inclusive growth, India is poised to maintain these achievements and enhance the health and well-being of its population.
