Socioeconomic differentials of neonatal mortality in Northern Karnataka: implications

Introduction Reduction of neonatal mortality from the current levels of 29 neonatal deaths per 1000 live births to 21 per 1000 live births is one of the major goals of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) in Karnataka. Strategic focus on geographies and sub-populations within the state where neonatal mortality is the highest will enhance the speed and magnitude of its reduction. A recently completed household survey in the eight districts of north Karnataka (Bagalkot, Bellary, Bidar, Bijapur, Gulbarga, Koppal, Raichur and Yadgir) conducted by project Sukshema provides an opportunity to examine the sub-population differentials in neonatal mortality. The Sukshema project supports the government of Karnataka through the development and adoption of effective operational and health system approaches within the NRHM.