NFHS-6 Set for May Release, Bringing Digitally Collected Health Data from 6.79 Lakh Households

A key advancement in NFHS-6 has been the use of CAPI software for data collection, incorporating real-time validation checks, error detection, and structured data scrutiny.

The sixth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6), conducted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, is expected to be released next month, providing updated, high-quality, digitally collected data on population health and emerging public health concerns.

The NFHS-6 has marked a shift in India’s large-scale health data collection by adopting a fully digital approach, surveying over 6.79 lakh households during 2023-24 to generate comprehensive and reliable insights into the country’s health landscape.

The previous round, NFHS-5 (2019-21), was carried out in two phases due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, making NFHS-6 particularly significant for capturing post-pandemic trends.

For this round, the ministry has continued to rely on the International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, as the nodal agency responsible for coordination and technical oversight.

The survey is widely regarded as one of the largest sample surveys in the country, offering comparable and policy-relevant data across states and Union Territories.

Key Health Indicators & COVID-19 Insights

NFHS-6 is expected to provide detailed insights across a range of indicators, including fertility rates, child and maternal health, nutrition levels, family planning practices, and access to healthcare services such as institutional deliveries.

In addition, it may include data on the prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and HIV.

Notably, this edition is likely to include information on COVID-19, including cases, hospitalisations, and deaths, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the pandemic’s impact on households and the health system.

Data Collection & Policy Impact

A key advancement in NFHS-6 has been the use of Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) software for data collection. This digital method has incorporated real-time validation checks, error detection, and structured data scrutiny, improving the accuracy and consistency of responses.

Fieldwork has been supported by rigorous supervision and multi-level data verification processes to ensure reliability.

The survey also plays a critical role in helping policymakers and programme implementers benchmark progress and design targeted interventions.

By capturing both long-standing indicators and emerging health concerns, NFHS-6 is expected to guide future strategies in public health, digital health integration, and healthcare delivery systems.

With its scale, methodological improvements, and expected inclusion of pandemic-related data, NFHS-6 is anticipated to be a crucial resource for understanding India’s evolving health profile and shaping evidence-based decision-making in the sector.

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