Abstract
This paper presents the development, testing, and spatial variation of an innovative India Health Index. Unlike previous approaches that focused on specific health aspects (e.g., health resources, child health, or health coverage), our index takes a comprehensive and multi-dimensional approach. It covers indicators across various life stages: child, adolescent, and adult. It encompasses six domains influencing health: socio-cultural factors, health status, health determinants (both risk and protective factors), household environment, and health system and policy. We used data from the latest round of the National Family Health Survey and employed Principal Component Analysis for constructing the India Health Index. Subsequent statistical tests confirmed its internal reliability and construct validity. External validity was indicated by its association with under-five mortality rates, and the sub-national human development index for India. Spatial analyses revealed significant inter-district and inter-state variation in India Health Index scores. The findings underscore the utility of the India Health Index as a measurement tool and its potential for tracking progress and policy intervention for improving health equity in India.
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