India has reported major progress in healthcare, women’s empowerment, and social development, according to its latest national survey.
The findings come from the Sixth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6), released by the Government of India.
Speaking to journalists in Freetown, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Indian High Commission, Mr Neeraj Kumar Saini, said the results show steady improvement in the lives of millions of people across the country.
He explained that the survey was carried out between 2023 and 2024, covering about 679,000 households and over 700,000 women in 715 districts. This makes it one of the largest health surveys in the world.
Mr Saini said access to basic services has improved greatly. Electricity coverage has reached 98.3 percent, while access to clean drinking water now stands at 96.5 percent. Health insurance coverage has also increased to 60.2 percent.
On women’s empowerment, he said 89 percent of women are now involved in household decision-making. The same percentage also own and use bank accounts. Internet use among women has also grown fast, reaching 64.3 percent.
The report also shows progress in maternal and child health. About 90.6 percent of births now take place in health facilities. Around 95.9 percent of pregnant women receive antenatal care, while full immunisation for children has increased to 87.1 percent.
India’s population growth is also stabilising. The fertility rate is now at 2.0, which is considered a stable level. Child marriage has reduced significantly, dropping from 47.4 percent in 2005–06 to 20.1 percent in 2023–24.
There are also improvements in child nutrition. Stunting among children has reduced from 38.4 percent to 29.3 percent over the past ten years. Severe wasting has also declined.
Mr Saini highlighted the role of digital health services in these gains. He said more than 187,000 health centres are now operating across India. In addition, over 467 million telemedicine consultations have been provided through the eSanjeevani platform.
Despite the progress, he noted that challenges remain, including rising cases of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. He said the government is working to address these through prevention and public awareness.
Mr Saini said the survey shows India’s strong commitment to improving healthcare and achieving global development goals.
He added that India’s experience can be useful for countries like Sierra Leone, especially in areas such as primary healthcare, digital systems, and women’s empowerment.
The Indian High Commission also reaffirmed its commitment to working with Sierra Leone in key sectors, including health, education, and digital development.
