New Delhi: India has emerged as a key contributor to global progress in reducing child mortality, according to the latest United Nations report. The UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UNIGME) Report 2025 highlighted India's sustained and large-scale efforts in improving child survival outcomes, particularly across neonatal and under-five mortality indicators.
Over the last two decades, India has played a pivotal role in reducing child mortality in the South Asia region, which witnessed a 76 per cent decline in under-five deaths since 1990 and a 68 per cent drop since 2000.
The under-five mortality rate in the region has fallen significantly -- from 92 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2000 to nearly 32 in 2024 -- reflecting sustained progress in child health outcomes.
"India is among the countries demonstrating steady progress in reducing child mortality through sustained public health efforts. This reflects the strength of a coordinated, standards-driven approach led by the Government of India in collaboration with states, with a clear focus on translating national priorities into improved outcomes for children," UNICEF India said in a press statement.
India's improvements in neonatal care systems have been particularly impactful. Across South Asia, neonatal deaths declined by nearly 60 per cent since 2000 and mortality in children aged 1 to 59 months declined by over 75 per cent.
