India’s SDG Index Rank 99: Health Targets Still Off-Track
Why in the news
India reached its best SDG Index position in June 2025, yet SDG 3 health outcomes still trail targets.
| SDG 3 indicator | Current | Target |
|---|---|---|
| Maternal Mortality Ratio | 97 per 100,000 | 70 |
| Under-5 mortality | 32 per 1,000 | 25 |
| Life expectancy | 70 years | 73.63 years |
| Out-of-pocket spending | 13% of consumption | 7.83% |
| Immunisation | 93.23% | 100% |
Concerns
- Weak infrastructure and affordability gaps.
- Malnutrition, poor hygiene and sanitation.
- Stigma around physical and mental health; low awareness.
Way forward
- Universal health insurance and stronger primary care with telemedicine and e-records.
- School health education, as in Finland’s 1970s reforms and Japan.
- Reorient PDS-type schemes towards protein-rich diets and maternal health.
Exam angle
- Health goal: SDG 3; India’s rank: 99 of 167.
- Vision link: Viksit Bharat 2047.