India has significantly reduced its neonatal mortality rate (NMR) from 24 to 20 per 1,000 live births between 2016 and 2020, though it remains a critical issue. The main causes are prematurity and low birth weight (~45%), birth asphyxia/trauma (~15%), and infections. Nearly 40% of neonatal deaths happen within the first 24 hours.
Key Statistics on Death at Birth/Newborns in India
Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR): Declined to 19 per 1,000 live births in 2021.
Infant Mortality Rate (IMR): Reported at 25 per 1,000 live births in 2023.
Regional Disparities: Rural areas experience higher mortality (28 per 1,000) compared to urban areas (18 per 1,000).
Highest Risk Areas: States like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh report higher IMR.
Timing: Approximately 75% of neonatal deaths occur within the first week of life.
Major Causes of Newborn Deaths
Prematurity and Low Birth Weight: ~44.7% - 48%.
Birth Asphyxia and Trauma: ~13% - 15.1%.
Neonatal Infections/Sepsis: ~5.2% - 10.1%.
Congenital Anomalies: ~4.3% - 4.9%.
Government and Health Initiatives
National Health Mission (NHM): Focuses on Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent health and Nutrition (RMNCAH+N) strategies.
Focus Areas: Improving institutional deliveries, training health personnel in newborn resuscitation, and providing specialized care for low-birth-weight babies.
While Kerala has achieved remarkably low infant mortality (5 per 1,000), other states like Maharashtra still face higher rates (16 per 1,000).