A Concerning Health Indicator for Assam
Assam continues to struggle with higher infant and child mortality rates compared to the national average, according to data presented in the Lok Sabha. The Ministry of Women and Child Development informed Parliament that the state’s mortality indicators remain above India’s overall figures, raising concerns about healthcare access, nutrition, and maternal health in the region.
The information was shared in response to a question raised by Nagaon MP Pradyut Bordoloi, who sought clarity on malnutrition, child deaths, and the performance of the Poshan Abhiyaan since 2020.
What the Data Shows
According to the Sample Registration System (SRS) 2023 data included in the ministry’s reply, India’s Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR) stands at 19 deaths per 1,000 live births, while Assam records 21 deaths, placing it above the national average.
The figures highlight a persistent gap between Assam and the rest of the country, despite improvements in recent years.
Under‑Five Mortality Also Higher
Additional data from the Union Health Ministry’s 2024–25 annual report shows that Assam remains below the national average in both Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) and Under‑Five Mortality Rate (U5MR). U5MR represents the probability of a child dying before reaching age five, expressed per 1,000 live births.
These indicators collectively point to systemic challenges in maternal and child healthcare across the state.
Why Assam’s Mortality Rates Remain High
Several factors contribute to Assam’s higher mortality rates:
- Low institutional deliveries, especially in hilly and riverine regions where access to hospitals is limited
- Insufficient healthcare facilities, particularly in remote areas
- High prevalence of malnutrition among children
- Limited access to antenatal and postnatal care
- Socio‑economic barriers affecting tribal and rural communities
Officials note that difficult terrain and poor connectivity often delay emergency care, increasing risks for mothers and newborns.
Rural‑Urban Gap Persists
While Assam has made progress — with IMR dropping from 41 in 2018 to 30 in 2023 — the rural‑urban divide remains significant. Urban areas have better access to hospitals, trained medical staff, and emergency services, while rural regions continue to face shortages.
Government Response and Initiatives
The state government has been working to improve maternal and child health through:
- Strengthening Poshan Abhiyaan
- Increasing institutional delivery rates
- Expanding health infrastructure in remote districts
- Deploying ASHA workers for community‑level monitoring
- Improving nutrition programmes for pregnant women and children
However, experts say more targeted interventions are needed to close the gap with national averages.
MP Pradyut Bordoloi Raises Alarm
Nagaon MP Pradyut Bordoloi expressed concern over the data and posted his reaction on social media, urging the government to intensify efforts to address malnutrition and child deaths in the state.
He emphasized that despite multiple schemes, the outcomes remain below expectations.
Comparing Assam With National Trends
India has made steady progress in reducing infant and child mortality over the past decade. However, Assam’s slower pace of improvement highlights structural challenges.
Key Differences
| Indicator | India | Assam |
|---|---|---|
| Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR) | 19 | 21 |
| Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) | Lower than Assam | Higher than national average |
| Under‑Five Mortality Rate (U5MR) | Lower | Higher |
Sources: SRS 2023, Union Health Ministry Annual Report
What Experts Say
Public health experts argue that Assam needs:
- More special newborn care units (SNCUs)
- Better transport and referral systems
- Increased nutrition support for mothers
- Improved monitoring of high‑risk pregnancies
- Greater investment in rural healthcare
They also stress the need for community awareness about early breastfeeding, immunization, and hygiene.
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Assam’s higher infant and child mortality rates underscore the urgent need for stronger healthcare interventions, especially in rural and tribal regions. While progress has been made, the state must accelerate efforts to match national standards and ensure safer births and healthier childhoods.