India ranks 12th in newborn mortality rates. HYDERABAD: The number of newborn deaths in India is 25 per 1,000 live births, which constitutes nearly a quarter of the newborn deaths globally, according to ‘Being Alive’, a report released by UNICEF on Tuesday. Bangladesh does better with 20.1 and Pakistan and Afghanistan do worse at 45.6 and 40 respectively. The report also stated that almost 80 per cent of the deaths of newborn children could be avoided if proper medical care, nutrition during pregnancy for mothers, and facilities were available. India is ranked 12th of the 52 lower middle income countries when it comes to newborn mortality rates. Gynaecologist Dr T.S. Akshara, says, “We have been ranked higher than our less prosperous neighbours because most programmes implemented by the government for child safety and women’s welfare are spread diversely with a few places reaping the benefit. We should ensure that newborn babies get the best of treatment while in the womb and outside.”