Release of “Children in India 2025” — Key Indicators on Child Welfare

On 25 September 2025, the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the fourth issue of Children in India 2025 during the 29th Conference of Central & State Statistical Organisations (CoCSSO) in Chandigarh.

Key highlights: Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) reduced from 44 (in 2011) to 25 (in 2023); dropout rate fell from 13.8% in 2022–23 to 8.2% in 2024–25; proportion of women marrying below age 18 declined from about 26.8% (2015–16) to 23.3% (2019–21); adoptive children count increased from 3,927 (2017–18) to 4,515 (2024–25).

IMR by sex and rural/urban splits are also detailed; for instance, the national IMR in 2023 stands at 25 deaths per 1,000 live births (26 for males, 25 for females).

The report also includes state-wise breakdowns, social categories, health, education, nutrition, and care indicators.

Background & Analysis:

The Children in India publication series began in 2008 as ad hoc efforts; the 2025 edition is the fourth such.

It aligns with India’s commitments under SDGs (especially goal 3, “Good health and well-being” and goal 4, “Quality education”) and the National Child Policy, aimed at reducing child mortality, improving education and ensuring child rights.

Declines in IMR and dropout rate reflect success of programmes like Universal Immunization, National Health Mission, mid-day meal scheme, Right to Education (RTE), and Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan. Yet, gaps remain in states with historically weak child indicators.

The drop in child marriage is positive, but social norms, implementation of (Prohibition of Child Marriage) Act, economic disparities, and enforcement remain challenges.

Implications / Way forward:

States lagging behind need targeted interventions (focus on low-performing districts).

Strengthen health and nutrition schemes, supplement early childhood development (ECD) with better outreach.

Ensure data quality and periodic monitoring to track progress.

Use this report as a benchmark for parliamentary and state policy review in child welfare, education, health, and social protection.