Kerala, a state renowned for its robust public healthcare system, has witnessed a significant drop in rankings in the NITI Aayog’s ‘good health and wellbeing index’. After consistently topping the list for years, Kerala now finds itself in the fourth position. The reason behind this shift is attributed to an increasing trend of unscientific thinking against immunisation and institutional deliveries within the state, as well as the inclusion of three new parameters in the NITI Aayog’s SDG India Index.
According to data from the NITI Aayog’s index, Kerala excelled in five out of 11 indicators. However, these gains have been overshadowed by a concerning trend of growing scepticism towards immunisation and institutional deliveries. This shift in public sentiment has had a negative impact on Kerala’s overall ranking.
Notably, the state of Gujarat has taken over Kerala’s previous top spot in the ‘good health and wellbeing index’. The change in rankings highlights the need for renewed focus on maintaining public confidence in scientific healthcare practices in Kerala.
Dr N M Arun, a prominent healthcare expert based in Thiruvananthapuram, expressed concern over the situation. “While it’s encouraging to see Kerala excel in several areas, we cannot ignore the growing trend of unscientific thinking. It is crucial that we address this issue promptly to ensure the continued success and wellbeing of our state,” he said.
The development has sparked a debate among health experts, policymakers, and the public, with many calling for increased awareness campaigns about the importance of immunisation and institutional deliveries. Some have also suggested stricter regulations to curb the spread of unscientific ideas.
As the state grapples with this challenge, Kerala continues to be a beacon of healthcare excellence in India. However, maintaining its top position requires ongoing commitment to scientific practices and continuous efforts to educate the public about their importance.
