Odisha Government Hospitals Lead in Normal Deliveries, Private Facilities Show Higher Cesarean Rates

Odisha’s Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling presented striking statistics in the Assembly, highlighting a clear difference between childbirth practices in government and private hospitals.

Over the past five years, the state recorded a total of 30,08,383 deliveries. Government hospitals accounted for the majority, with more than 23,69,000 births, of which 19,59,918 were normal deliveries, and 4,09,718 were cesarean sections.

In contrast, private hospitals reported 1,48,242 normal deliveries and a significantly higher 4,90,505 cesarean deliveries.

The figures underscore that cesarean sections are performed at a much higher rate in private facilities compared to government ones.

Authorities emphasised that expectant mothers should prefer government hospitals for normal delivery, where medical teams encourage natural birth unless complications arise.

The data reflects Odisha’s commitment to strengthening maternal health services and promoting safer childbirth practices.