NSO Survey Findings
India’s Healthcare Access Shows Strong Improvement: The National Statistical Office (NSO) released its 80th round survey on Household Social Consumption on Health in April 2026. The survey highlighted major improvements in healthcare accessibility, affordability, and insurance coverage across India. It also reflected the growing role of government-funded healthcare services in rural and urban regions.
One of the most significant findings was the reduction in Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE). More than half of hospitalisation cases in public hospitals incurred expenses of nearly ₹1,100 only. This indicates better financial protection for poor and vulnerable families.
Static GK fact: The National Statistical Office functions under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
Expansion of Public Healthcare
The survey showed a steady rise in the use of public healthcare institutions. Rural outpatient treatment in public facilities increased from 28% in 2014 to 35% in 2025. This growth was supported by the strengthening of primary healthcare systems and expansion of government facilities.
The establishment of more than 1.84 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs) improved healthcare access at the grassroots level. These centres focus on preventive healthcare, maternal services, and treatment of common diseases.
Static GK Tip: Ayushman Arogya Mandirs were earlier known as Health and Wellness Centres under the Ayushman Bharat Programme.
Improvement in Maternal Healthcare
India recorded remarkable progress in institutional deliveries. Rural institutional deliveries increased to 95.6%, while urban institutional deliveries reached 97.8%. This improvement reflects stronger maternal healthcare systems and increased awareness among women.
Schemes such as Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) and Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) played a major role in improving maternal and child health services. These initiatives provide financial support, antenatal care, and safe delivery services.
Static GK fact: Janani Suraksha Yojana was launched in 2005 under the National Health Mission.
Rise of Non-Communicable Diseases
The survey highlighted India’s ongoing epidemiological transition. Infectious diseases are declining, while non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases are increasing rapidly.
This shift requires long-term healthcare planning, lifestyle awareness, and preventive health measures. Government programmes now focus more on early diagnosis and chronic disease management at the primary healthcare level.
Health Insurance and Affordable Medicines
Government-backed health insurance coverage expanded significantly. Rural coverage rose to 45.5%, while urban coverage reached 31.8%. The flagship Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) provides cashless treatment coverage of ₹5 lakh per family annually.
Affordable medicine schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) and Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment (AMRIT) reduced medicine costs for common citizens. These initiatives improved access to essential drugs and medical implants.
Static GK Tip: PM-JAY is the world’s largest government-funded health assurance programme.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India’s Healthcare Access Shows Strong Improvement:
| Topic | Detail |
| Survey Name | 80th Round Household Social Consumption on Health |
| Conducted By | National Statistical Office |
| Key Finding | Reduced Out-of-Pocket Expenditure |
| Rural Institutional Deliveries | 95.6% |
| Urban Institutional Deliveries | 97.8% |
| Major Health Scheme | Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana |
| Insurance Coverage | ₹5 lakh per family annually |
| Affordable Medicine Scheme | PMBJP and AMRIT |
| Healthcare Centres | Ayushman Arogya Mandirs |
| Major Health Trend | Rise in non-communicable diseases |
