According to NFHS 4 (2015-16) survey data, 17.2% births are delivered by caesarean section while according to NFHS 3 (2005-06) survey data, 8.5% births are delivered by caesarean section.

Details of state-wise births delivered by caesarean section are given below:

Source: NFHS4 (2015-16)

WHO in its statement released in April 2015 states that at population level, caesarean section rates higher than 10% are not associated with reductions in maternal and newborn mortality rates.

·         In this regard a communication vide OM M.12015/182/2015-MCH has been sent to all the State Principal Secretaries and Mission Directors of all States and UTs urging them to share the WHO statement with all the Obstetricians and Gynecologists working in their respective states. In addition, the States have been suggested to conduct periodic prescription audits in private sector which could also be extended to public sector.

·         Government of India also has written vide OM M.12015/182/2015-MCH to Federation of Obstetrical and Gynecologists in India (FOGSI) to share the WHO statement among the Obstetricians and Gynecologists under the umbrella of FOGSI.

·         The Government of India has enacted the Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010 with the objective of registration and regulation of health care institutions including those in the private sector. Health being a state subject, it is the responsibility of the state to effectively implement the act, however the centre provides continuous guidance, strict monitoring and directives for the regulation of high caesarean section rates.

·         All CGHS empanelled hospitals are directed to display the information regarding ratio of deliveries by caesarean section vis-à-vis normal deliveries. A communication was sent in this regard vide OM Z15025/2017 to all the CGHS empanelled hospitals.

The Minister of State (Health and Family Welfare), Sh Ashwini Kumar Choubey stated this in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha here today.

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 MV/LK