In a remarkable achievement that underscores decades of focused healthcare investment and social development, the southern Indian state of Kerala has recorded one of the lowest infant mortality rates (IMR) in the world. As per the latest Sample Registration System Statistical Report 2023, released on September 3, 2025, Kerala’s IMR stands at 5 deaths per 1,000 live births, a figure lower than the United Nations’ threshold for very low IMR countries.
The report also notes that the improvements in healthcare and social development observed in Kerala were largely due to increased access to affordable and quality healthcare services, as well as significant investments in education and women’s empowerment programs.
In terms of gender disparity, Kerala’s IMR for male infants is 9 deaths per 1,000 births, while female infants have an IMR of just 2 per 1,000. This gender discrepancy in infant mortality rates has been a subject of study and discussion among health experts and policymakers.
The success story of Kerala’s healthcare system is not new. In 2023, the state was already recognized for its low IMR, which stood at 10 deaths per 1,000 live births. Since then, it has made further strides in reducing this rate, putting it among the top performers globally.
The achievements of Kerala’s healthcare system are a testament to the state’s commitment to social development and its focus on improving access to quality healthcare services for all its citizens. However, challenges remain, particularly in ensuring equitable access to healthcare services across different regions and socio-economic groups within the state.
The attention Kerala’s healthcare system is receiving is not limited to India. In recent years, the U.S. has shown interest in studying and replicating some of Kerala’s successful strategies in its own healthcare system. As the world continues to grapple with issues of affordable and accessible healthcare, Kerala’s model could offer valuable insights and potential solutions.
The data from the Sample Registration System Statistical Report 2023 also shows that other southern states, including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, have also made strides in reducing their IMRs. These developments underscore the potential for improved healthcare outcomes across India as a whole.
