Andhra Pradesh’s Cesarean Crisis: CM Slams ‘Greedy’ Doctors for Profit-Driven Births

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu addressed the state Assembly in Amaravati, raising serious concerns about the state's unprecedented cesarean section (C-section) rate, which stands at 56.62% of all births—the highest in India. Labeling the trend "dangerous," Naidu accused profit-driven doctors in private hospitals, where 90% of these procedures occur, of prioritizing financial gain over patient well-being by encouraging unnecessary C-sections over natural deliveries.

“This is a dangerous trend. These doctors, everywhere, are pushing cesarean operations for money instead of promoting safe, natural deliveries,” Naidu stated, emphasizing that Andhra Pradesh’s C-section rate far exceeds the national average and World Health Organization recommendations, which suggest 10-15% as an ideal rate for medical necessity. He highlighted that 4.2% of funds from the Dr NTR Vaidya Seva Trust, a state healthcare initiative, are being consumed by these procedures, straining public resources.

Naidu directed Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav to issue a stern advisory to medical professionals, urging them to prioritize natural deliveries unless medically essential. “The natural body given by God should not undergo surgery unless it is really needed,” he remarked, advocating for a shift toward safer, evidence-based practices. The Chief Minister’s comments reflect growing concerns about the commercialization of healthcare, particularly in private facilities, where C-sections are often more lucrative and quicker to perform than vaginal deliveries.

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Deputy Speaker K Raghurama Krishna Raju added a cultural dimension to the issue, noting that some families opt for C-sections to align delivery dates with astrologically “auspicious” times, or muhurats, often scheduled a month in advance. “This practice of fixing delivery dates is wrong and interferes with the natural course of pregnancy,” Naidu responded, underscoring the need for public awareness to curb such trends.

The high C-section rate raises significant health implications, as the procedure carries risks such as longer recovery times, potential complications, and higher costs for families. Experts suggest that overuse of C-sections can also impact maternal and infant health outcomes, including increased risks of infections and challenges in future pregnancies. Naidu’s call for reform aligns with broader efforts to strengthen Andhra Pradesh’s healthcare system, ensuring equitable access to safe and affordable maternal care.

In the same Assembly session, HRD Minister Nara Lokesh announced ambitious plans to bolster the state’s educational infrastructure. He revealed that a world-class State Library in Amaravati, costing ₹150 crore, is on track for completion within 24 months. Additionally, the Mangalagiri Model Library, nearing its final stage, is set for inauguration in October 2025. The TDP-led NDA government aims to establish similar libraries across all 175 Assembly constituencies, alongside digital libraries and community reading programs to foster a vibrant reading culture among students.

Naidu’s critique of the C-section crisis and the government’s educational initiatives signal a dual focus on public health and intellectual development, addressing systemic challenges while laying the foundation for a healthier, more educated Andhra Pradesh.

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