Significant Decrease in Mortality Rates
Recent data from the Jammu and Kashmir government reveals a dramatic reduction in neonatal mortality rate (NMR) to 9.8 per 1,000 live births, marking a decrease of 13.3 points. The infant mortality rate (IMR) similarly fell to 16.3, a drop of 16.1 points. This data indicates substantial improvements in maternal and child health initiatives.
Improvements in Health Metrics
The latest Economic Survey Report for 2024-25 presented in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly indicates progress in several health metrics. The sex ratio at birth has also exhibited remarkable growth, increasing from 923 to 976. The percentage of fully-immunized children rose to an impressive 96.5%.
Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure
The government has emphasized enhancing basic health infrastructure, including hiring additional personnel and upgrading medical equipment. The life expectancy in Jammu and Kashmir has reached 74.3 years, ranking third highest in the country.
Healthcare Initiatives
Under the Ayushman Golden Card scheme, 86.12 lakh cards have been distributed, facilitating treatments worth Rs 2,800 crore for about 15 lakh individuals. Furthermore, the introduction of 489 geo-tagged ambulances has improved emergency response times, serving over 4.50 lakh beneficiaries since August 2020.
Workforce and Infrastructure Development
Over the last four years, Jammu and Kashmir has expanded its healthcare workforce by recruiting 10,919 doctors and paramedics, along with filling 36,274 regular positions in the sector. The infrastructural upgrade includes two new AIIMS, two state cancer institutes, and operational health and wellness centers.
Conclusion
With these comprehensive efforts, Jammu and Kashmir has transitioned from a performer to a front-runner in health metrics, as indicated by the SDG India Index 2023-24 released by NITI Aayog.
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