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India Sees Remarkable Decline in Mortality Rates: Economic Survey

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at 19:53 GMT by Daily
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New Delhi, February 16th, 2026 - India is experiencing a remarkable transformation in public health, as evidenced by the recently released Economic Survey 2025-26. The report details a significant and sustained decline in mortality rates across the nation, offering a hopeful outlook for the country's demographic future. This isn't simply a statistical blip; it represents a fundamental shift driven by a confluence of factors, including expanded healthcare access, leaps in medical technology, and proactive public health initiatives.

For decades, India grappled with persistently high mortality rates, particularly amongst mothers and infants. The Economic Survey highlights dramatic improvements in these crucial areas. Maternal mortality rates have fallen by an estimated 22% over the last five years, a result of focused programs like the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (maternity benefit scheme) and enhanced antenatal and postnatal care available at primary health centres. Similarly, infant mortality has witnessed a 18% reduction, largely due to improved immunization coverage, better neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), and increased awareness surrounding safe delivery practices.

However, the progress isn't limited to maternal and infant health. The survey demonstrates a substantial decrease in mortality rates from both communicable and non-communicable diseases. The success in combating communicable diseases, like tuberculosis and malaria, stems from a strengthened National Health Mission and consistent implementation of disease control programs, coupled with a more robust surveillance system. The introduction of novel diagnostics and treatment regimens has also played a critical role.

The rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) - heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes - has been a growing concern globally, and India is no exception. The Economic Survey acknowledges this challenge but presents encouraging data indicating that mortality rates from these diseases are stabilizing and even declining in certain segments of the population. This is attributed to a combination of factors: increased public awareness campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles, early detection programs for common cancers, and improved access to cardiovascular care. The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) is receiving increased funding and expanded reach, allowing it to deliver preventative care and treatment to a wider population.

Beyond the Numbers: The Drivers of Change

The Economic Survey doesn't simply present data; it attempts to unpack the underlying drivers of this positive trend. Increased government spending on healthcare, while still needing improvement, has been a crucial factor. The expansion of the Ayushman Bharat scheme - the national health insurance program - has provided financial protection to millions of families, allowing them to access healthcare services without falling into debt. Improved infrastructure, particularly the establishment of new primary health centres and upgrading existing facilities, has broadened access to basic healthcare.

The advancements in medical technology are also undeniable. Telemedicine, in particular, has proven to be a game-changer, bridging the gap between healthcare providers and patients in remote and underserved areas. Digital health records are becoming increasingly prevalent, enabling better patient management and data-driven decision-making. The 'Digital India' initiative has provided the necessary infrastructure for these technologies to flourish.

The Challenge of Equity and Regional Disparities

Despite the overall positive trend, the Economic Survey rightly points out that significant regional disparities persist. Healthcare access and quality remain unevenly distributed across India, with rural areas and marginalized communities facing disproportionately higher mortality rates. States with weaker healthcare infrastructure and lower socioeconomic indicators continue to lag behind. This requires a targeted approach, with increased investment in these underserved regions, focusing on strengthening primary healthcare systems, training healthcare workers, and addressing the social determinants of health.

Furthermore, the survey calls for a deeper investigation into the effectiveness of specific interventions and policies. While some programs have demonstrably yielded positive results, others require refinement or recalibration. Evidence-based policymaking is crucial to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and that public health strategies are optimized for maximum impact. More granular data analysis, focusing on specific demographics and geographic locations, is needed to identify and address localized challenges.

The government is currently piloting several innovative programs aimed at reducing health inequities, including mobile health clinics, community health worker programs, and incentivizing doctors to practice in rural areas. The long-term success of these initiatives will be key to achieving universal health coverage and ensuring that all Indians have access to quality healthcare, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status.

In conclusion, the Economic Survey 2025-26 paints a compelling picture of India's progress in improving population health. While challenges remain, the declining mortality rates are a testament to the power of strategic investments in healthcare and proactive public health interventions. The path forward requires sustained commitment, a focus on equity, and a willingness to learn from both successes and failures.