According to a report by the National Family Health Survey, the rate among infants and those under five years of age has improved but malnutrition among children has worsened in 18 states across India.
“Substantial improvement in maternal and child health indicators over NFHS-4 was recorded in the present survey. The fertility rate has further declined, and contraceptive use has increased in most Phase I States. The survey found considerable improvement in vaccination coverage among children aged 12-23 months across all States/UTs. Women’s empowerment indicators (including women with bank accounts) also portray considerable progress,” a press statement from the Health Ministry noted.
The Health Minister Harsh Vardhan released the fifth National Family Health Survey which contains detailed information on population, health, and nutrition for India and its states.
Thirteen states and UTs out of the 22 surveyed recorded a rise in the percentage of children under five years who are underweight.
Meanwhile, according to the further report by NFHS the sex ratio of the total population rose in 17 states and Union Territory in comparison to 2015 numbers.
