Gujarat Tops Health Category in SDG India Index

Gujarat Tops Health Category in SDG India Index

Ahmedabad: Gujarat has been recognized as the top state in the 'Good Health and Well-being' category of the SDG India Index 2023-24, released by NITI Aayog. This marks the second consecutive year that Gujarat has secured the first rank in this category.

Key Highlights:

  • Significant Improvement: Gujarat's score for health has dramatically increased from 52 in 2018 to 90 in 2023, significantly higher than the national average of 77.
  • Maternal and Child Health: The state has achieved major reductions in maternal and child mortality rates, thanks to increased institutional deliveries and comprehensive immunization programs.
  • Infectious Disease Control: Efforts to control diseases like tuberculosis and HIV-AIDS have been highly effective.
  • Healthcare Workforce: There has been a significant increase in medical and paramedical manpower across the state.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed pride in the state's achievements, attributing the success to the dedication of healthcare workers and effective state policies. "Our focus on reducing maternal and child mortality, boosting institutional deliveries, and enhancing immunization rates has been pivotal," he stated.

Statistical Highlights:

  • Life Expectancy: Gujarat boasts an average life expectancy of 70.5 years, slightly above the national average of 70 years.
  • Institutional Birth Rate: The state's institutional birth rate stands at 99.94%, compared to the national average of 97.18%.
  • Maternal Mortality Rate: Gujarat's maternal mortality rate is 57, significantly lower than the national average of 97.

Health Minister Rishikesh Patel congratulated healthcare workers for their relentless efforts, which have played a crucial role in achieving this distinction. He emphasized that the state's health initiatives have led to improved outcomes and better healthcare services for the population.

The SDG India Index 2023-24, the fourth edition of this assessment tool, evaluates the progress of Indian states and Union Territories on the 16 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations in 2015. Gujarat's consistent top performance in the health category underscores its commitment to enhancing the well-being of its citizens through sustained and effective healthcare strategies.