NSS Health Survey 2025: Surge in Reported Illness and Insurance Coverage
NSS 80th Round Health Survey: A Snapshot of India’s Healthcare Transition
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the findings of the 80th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS), titled ‘Household Social Consumption: Health’. Conducted between January and December 2025, the survey provides a comprehensive look at morbidity, hospitalization, and maternal care across India.
Key Finding 1: Rising Morbidity Rates
A significant observation is the increase in the Proportion of Population Reported Ailing (PPRA). In 2025, about 13.1% of people reported illness in the 15 days preceding the survey, a sharp rise from 7.5% in 2017–18. This surge is most prominent among the elderly (aged 60 and above), with nearly 44% reporting ailments.
Key Finding 2: Hospitalization and Maternal Care
- Hospitalization Rate: The overall rate stood at 2.9%. It was highest among senior citizens (8.1%) and young children aged 0–4 (3.4%).
- Institutional Deliveries: Reaching a near-universal milestone, institutional deliveries touched 96.2% (Rural: 95.6%, Urban: 97.8%), showcasing the success of maternal health schemes.
Key Finding 3: The Insurance Leap
Health insurance coverage has seen a massive expansion, reaching 44–47% of the population, compared to roughly 14–19% in 2017–18. This growth is primarily driven by government-financed health insurance schemes like Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY).
Key Finding 4: Epidemiological Shift
The survey captures an important transition in India's disease burden. While infectious diseases have shown a decline, Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and hypertension have become the dominant health concern for individuals over the age of 30.
For TNPSC and Civil Services aspirants, these statistics are vital for "Social Issues" and "Human Development Indicators," highlighting the shifting priorities toward geriatric care and NCD management in India.
