This article analyzes the state-wise variation and inequalities in caesarean delivery (CD) rates in India using data from the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–2021). Key findings include:
Geographical variations
The national CD rate is 21.5%, ranging from 5.2% in Nagaland to 60.7% in Telangana.
Wealth-based inequalities
CD rates ranged from 0% in the poorest quintile to 76.7% in the richest quintile. 69.4% of states had CD rates at least twice as high in the richest versus poorest quintiles.
Public vs. Private facilities
CD rates were higher in private (47.5%) than public (14.3%) facilities across all wealth quintiles. Both high-income and low-income populations had higher CD rates in private facilities.
The study highlights the importance of disaggregating national CD rates to identify disparities in access to this essential obstetric service.
