Birthing by the Clock: What is the BTS of increased C-section births in India?

India’s success in increasing institutional deliveries over the last two decades has played a crucial role in reducing maternal deaths. Yet, this achievement has also been accompanied by a sharp rise in Caesarean-section (C-section) births, which has raised concerns. C-sections are essential and often life-saving when medically required. However, the National Family Health Survey-6 (NFHS 6) data shows growing use of the procedure especially in private hospitals far exceeds medical needs. This Info-Pack explores the economic, institutional, policy, and socio-cultural factors driving this trend and attempts to understand what it reveals about the changing nature of maternal healthcare in India.