Question

Which of the following statements about Kerala's Under-five mortality rate are true?

1. The Under-five mortality rate (under 5 MR) in Kerala is 8.
2. Kerala's Under-five mortality rate is one-fourth of the all-India figure.
3. The all-India figure for Under-five mortality is 32.
4. Kerala's Under-five mortality rate is equal to the national average.

• A. ഒന്നും രണ്ടും മൂന്നും
• B. രണ്ട്
• C. രണ്ടും മൂന്നും
• D. രണ്ട് മാത്രം

Answer 1

Answer:

A. ഒന്നും രണ്ടും മൂന്നും

Understanding Under-five Mortality Rate (U5MR) in Kerala

• The Under-five mortality rate (U5MR) refers to the number of deaths of children under five years of age per 1,000 live births. It is a critical indicator of a country's or region's overall health, socio-economic development, and the effectiveness of its healthcare system.

• According to data from sources like the Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2020, the Under-five mortality rate in Kerala is 8 per 1,000 live births. This is a remarkably low figure, comparable to many developed nations.

• In contrast, the all-India figure for Under-five mortality is 32 per 1,000 live births, as per the same SRS 2020 report.

• Comparing these figures, Kerala's U5MR (8) is indeed one-fourth of the all-India figure (32) (8 * 4 = 32). This highlights Kerala's exceptional performance in child health outcomes.

• Therefore, the statement that Kerala's Under-five mortality rate is equal to the national average is incorrect. Kerala's rate is significantly lower.

The 'Kerala Model' of Development and Health Outcomes

• Kerala's achievement in maintaining such low mortality rates, including U5MR, Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), and Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR), is often attributed to the 'Kerala Model' of development.

• This model emphasizes high social sector spending, particularly in education and healthcare, public distribution of essential goods, and land reforms.

• Key factors contributing to Kerala's superior health indicators include:

• High Literacy Rates: Especially high female literacy, which empowers women to make informed health decisions for themselves and their children.

• Universal Access to Healthcare: A strong network of public health centers, hospitals, and primary healthcare facilities even in rural areas.

• Effective Public Health Initiatives: Robust immunization programs, sanitation, and clean drinking water access.

• Women Empowerment: Greater agency of women in household decisions and access to maternal and child health services.

• Social Equity: Policies aimed at reducing disparities in access to basic services.

• For competitive exams, it is crucial to remember these specific figures (Kerala's U5MR of 8 and All-India U5MR of 32 from recent SRS data) and understand that Kerala consistently ranks among the top states in India for various health and social development indicators, significantly outperforming the national average.