ANDHRA PRADESH: “Naidu Highlights Concerns on Cesarean Overuse in Assembly“
In a spirited address to the Andhra Pradesh Assembly, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu raised alarms over the state’s high cesarean section rates, predominantly in private hospitals.
Speaking during a health department debate on September 23, 2025, he outlined a vision for safer childbirth and broader health improvements.
Naidu emphasized that his government would tackle the concerning trend of 90 percent of cesarean deliveries occurring in private facilities.
He urged Health Minister Satyakumar to promote awareness campaigns and yoga for pregnant women to encourage natural deliveries.
Cesarean Delivery Concerns
- 90% of cesarean sections occur in private hospitals.
- CM Naidu advocates for natural childbirth to reduce unnecessary surgeries.
- Directed the Health Minister to launch awareness and yoga programs for pregnant women.
Health Infrastructure and Achievements
- 98% of deliveries occur in hospitals, with 42% in government facilities.
- The state has 1.15 lakh doctors, surpassing WHO medical officer standards.
- Achieved 97% immunization and 78% electronic health records, aiming for 100%.
Population and Public Health Insights
- The Andhra Pradesh population is projected at 5.37 crore by 2026.
- Anemia affects 32% of pregnant women in the state.
- Life expectancy aligns with the national average of 70 years.
Medical Education and PPP Initiatives
- The state hosts 38 medical colleges, with 17 funded with Rs. 1550 crore under YSRCP.
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to expedite medical college development.
Alarming Cesarean Trends
Naidu expressed unease over Andhra Pradesh leading in cesarean sections, describing surgical interventions as unnatural unless critical.
He noted that while 98 percent of deliveries happen in hospitals, 42 percent utilize public facilities, signaling a heavy reliance on private care.
He called for introspection to curb this pattern, stressing that medical interventions should not override natural processes without justification.
The government plans to engage communities directly to shift perceptions around childbirth.
Robust Health Infrastructure
Highlighting the state’s health strides, Naidu pointed to a robust network of 1.15 lakh doctors, exceeding World Health Organization benchmarks.
Primary Health Centers in Andhra Pradesh also outnumber the national average, bolstering access.
The state has achieved 97 percent immunization coverage and 78 percent electronic health record adoption, with plans to reach full coverage soon.
Yet, challenges like 32 percent anemia rates among pregnant women remain a focus.
Population Dynamics and Future Goals
Naidu projected Andhra Pradesh’s population to hit 5.37 crore by 2026, contrasting with declining trends in southern states.
He noted that India’s population balance hinges on growth in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
By 2047, he referenced estimates of India reaching 162 crore, against China’s 100 crore.
This demographic shift underscores the need for sustainable health policies tailored to regional needs.
Medical Education and Political Tensions
The Chief Minister took pride in expanding medical education, with 38 medical colleges now operational.
He criticized the previous YSRCP government’s pace, noting that their approach would delay progress by 15 years.
Naidu championed the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to fast-track medical college projects and increase MBBS seats.
He rebuffed accusations of politicizing health, framing PPPs as vital economic reforms attracting investment.
Defending Health Reforms
Some critics accused the government of exploiting health issues for political gain, a charge Naidu firmly rejected.
He emphasized his long-standing push for a medical college in every district, a goal now nearing fruition.
The PPP system, he argued, has drawn investors and created wealth, countering claims of mismanagement.
Completion of a tribal university in Salur further showcases his administration’s commitment to underserved areas.