Karnataka Tops Economic Burden of Suicides in India: Study

India’s annual economic burden from suicides exceeds Rs 1.40 lakh crore ($16.7 billion), with Karnataka bearing nearly 20% of this cost, according to a recent study. The study, published in The Lancet, reveals that Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra collectively account for about 45% of the national burden.

Karnataka’s share is Rs 23,000 crore ($2.78 billion), followed by Tamil Nadu at Rs 21,000 crore ($2.54 billion) and Maharashtra at Rs 18,000 crore ($2.17 billion). Other states with significant economic losses include Gujarat, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh.

The study, which analyzed data from over 195,000 suicides in 2019, highlights that individuals aged 20-34 contribute to 53% of the national economic burden. Researchers emphasize that suicides impact economic productivity significantly, as they involve primarily young and working individuals.

The study underscores the urgent need for improved suicide prevention measures, citing the lack of adequate funding for mental health initiatives in India. Despite the National Suicide Prevention Strategy’s goal to reduce mortality by 10% by 2030, investments remain limited. The current allocation for mental health is less than 1% of the health budget.

Researchers call for increased recognition of suicide as a major societal concern with substantial economic implications, advocating for a better allocation of resources to address this crisis.

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