Abstract

India is a lower-middle-income country with one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Despite improvements in its economy, it has a high child mortality rate, with significant differences in child mortality both between and within different states. Poverty, malnutrition and poor sanitation are major problems for many Indians and are a major contributor to child mortality. More than 40% children are malnourished or stunted. Healthcare provision is poor, and many families, especially in rural areas, have major difficulties in accessing healthcare. Kerala has the lowest child mortality rates in India. This has been achieved by reducing poverty, malnutrition and inequalities. The provision of universal education alongside universal access to healthcare has demonstrated that child mortality rates could be reduced. India could significantly reduce its child mortality by following the example of Kerala.