India’s population has surged to an estimated 1.44 billion, with 24% of the population falling in the age bracket of 0-14 years, according to a recent report by the UNFPA. The report, titled “Interwoven Lives, Threads of Hope: Ending Inequalities in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights,” highlights that India’s population is projected to double in 77 years, with China following closely behind with an estimated population of 1.425 billion.
Despite progress in sexual and reproductive health over the past three decades, particularly in maternal health services, the report underscores persistent inequalities and challenges. For instance, while maternal deaths in India have decreased significantly, the country still grapples with dramatic disparities in maternal mortality rates across districts. Moreover, marginalized communities, including women with disabilities, migrants, refugees, and ethnic minorities, continue to face heightened risks and unequal access to healthcare.
The report emphasizes the need for sustained investment and global solidarity to address these challenges and reduce disparities in sexual and reproductive health. It calls for prioritizing the most marginalized groups and ensuring their access to quality healthcare services. Additionally, it underscores the importance of tackling broader societal issues such as caste-based discrimination and gender-based violence to achieve comprehensive progress in sexual and reproductive health and rights.
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