According to the recent SRS Statistical Report 2024, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) now account for 60% of total mortality in India, a significant increase from previous years. This shift highlights the urgent need for health policy reforms, particularly relevant for UPSC aspirants studying GS Paper 2 and GS Paper 3. Last Updated: 27-05-2026

Key Facts About Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)

NCDs account for 60% of total mortality in India, up from 52.8% in 2015-2017.
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause, responsible for 32.1% of all deaths, increasing to 37.3% in the 30-69 age group.
NCD mortality is higher in urban areas (64.8%) compared to rural areas (58.8%).
Men have a higher NCD mortality rate (62.3%) than women (56.9%).
Adults aged 30-44 account for 19.5% of total deaths, threatening India's demographic dividend.
Suicide is the leading cause of death among the 15-29 age group, rising from 16.3% to 19%.
NCDs in EAG States and Assam cause 53.9% of deaths, compared to 63.5% in non-EAG states.

India's Health Landscape: A Broader Context

The rise in non-communicable diseases poses a significant challenge to India's health infrastructure and economic goals. As these diseases predominantly affect the working-age population, they threaten the country's economic productivity and demographic dividend. The increasing prevalence of NCDs in urban areas and among men highlights the need for targeted health interventions. Internationally, India must address these health challenges to improve its global health rankings and economic competitiveness.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD): Launched in 2010 to provide universal access to affordable healthcare and control NCDs.
National Health Mission (NHM): Subsumed NP-NCD in 2013-14 to strengthen healthcare services.

UPSC Relevance

GS Paper 2: Health policies and government interventions.
GS Paper 3: Economic impact of health issues, demographic challenges.
Prelims: Facts about NCD prevalence, government schemes.
Mains: Analytical themes on public health strategies, socio-economic impacts of NCDs.
Essay Paper: Topics on health infrastructure and demographic dividend.

FAQ Section

What are non-communicable diseases (NCDs)?

NCDs are chronic diseases that are not transmissible and have a long duration, often resulting from genetic, physiological, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Major NCDs include cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes.

Why are NCDs important?

NCDs are important because they have become the leading cause of mortality in India, affecting economic productivity and posing a significant challenge to the country's health infrastructure. Addressing NCDs is crucial for improving public health and economic outcomes.

What are the key features of the NP-NCD program?

The NP-NCD program was launched to prevent and control NCDs by providing universal access to affordable healthcare. It was initially implemented in 100 districts across 21 states and later expanded under the National Health Mission to strengthen healthcare services.

NCDs now account for 60% of total mortality in India.
Cardiovascular diseases contribute to 32.1% of all deaths, up from 27.1%.
Premature mortality affects adults in their 30s and 40s.
NCD mortality is higher in urban areas at 64.8%.
Men face a higher mortality rate at 62.3% compared to women at 56.9%.
Adults aged 30-44 represent 19.5% of total deaths.
Suicide is the leading cause of death for youth aged 15-29.
Health divide exists between EAG States and non-EAG states.
NCDs cause 53.9% of deaths in EAG states.
NCDs are chronic diseases linked to lifestyle, genetics, and environment.
The NP-NCD program was launched in 2010 to combat NCDs.
The program expanded under the National Health Mission in 2013-14.
Urgent public health strategies are needed to address rising NCDs.
Focus on socio-economic factors affecting mental health is crucial.
Alarming trends in premature mortality need immediate attention.
Recent SRS report prompts discussions on health policy reforms.

Rising Non-Communicable Diseases: A Worrying Trend in India's Health Landscape

Key Points