Mulugu and Bhupalapally record the lowest figures

The report also reveals the troubling rise in mortality rates across various age groups. Telangana recorded 6,281 infant deaths in 2021, with 988 deaths among children aged 5–14 years

Telangana is experiencing a demographic shift, marked by a notable decline in birth rates and a sharp rise in mortality, according to the latest Civil Registration System (CRS-2021) report by the Office of the Registrar General, India. In 2021, the state recorded 58,000 fewer births compared to the previous year (2020), continuing a downward trend that began after 2019, which saw the highest birth numbers in recent history at 841,268.

In contrast to the decline in births, the state registered an alarming rise of 31,000 deaths in 2021. This surge aligns with broader national trends, which have been attributed to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and other health-related challenges. Among districts, Hyderabad recorded the highest number of both births (95,668) and deaths (41,451). At the opposite end, Mulugu district saw the lowest number of births (3,868), while Bhupalapally reported the least number of deaths (1,121).   

Another concerning aspect of the report is the notable decline in the sex ratio at birth. In 2021, only 922 girls were born for every 1,000 boys in the state, raising serious concerns among public health experts and activists. This imbalance has highlighted the need for enhanced gender sensitization and efforts to combat deep-rooted cultural biases.

The report also reveals the troubling rise in mortality rates across various age groups. Telangana recorded 6,281 infant deaths in 2021, with 988 deaths among children aged 5–14 years, and 1,976 deaths in the 15–24 age group. 

The mortality rates escalated among adults, with 3,980 deaths recorded in the 25–34 age group, 6,783 in the 35–44 range, and 12,184 in the 45–54 group. Among seniors, there were 22,423 deaths in the 55–64 age bracket, 42,349 in the 65–69 age group, and 85,945 deaths in the 70–74 group. The very elderly (75+) accounted for 51,516 deaths, underscoring the growing need for advanced healthcare services and care for the elderly population.

On a positive note, Telangana has seen improvements in birth and death registration rates, especially in urban districts such as Hyderabad, Rangareddy, and Medchal- Malkajgiri. However, rural areas still face challenges in achieving full registration coverage, indicating the need for more outreach and awareness programs to highlight the importance of timely registration.

The CRS-2021 report emphasizes the need for urgent healthcare reforms, particularly in addressing mortality rates and improving gender balance in the state.