Education, Poverty, and Social Inequality as Determinants of Adolescent Pregnancy in India: Findings from NFHS - 5

Background: Adolescent pregnancy represents a complex public health challenge in India, shaped by overlapping socioeconomic, educational, and health vulnerabilities. Despite a gradual decline in national rates, disparities persist across regions and population groups, warranting detailed examination. This study examines the socioeconomic and health-related determinants of adolescent pregnancy in India using nationally representative data. Methods: A weighted sample of 109,662 adolescent girls was analysed using the NFHS-5 Individual Recode dataset. Key variables were operationalised into binary or categorical formats, and survey-weighted logistic regression was performed to estimate adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals. Results: Higher educational attainment was significantly associated with lower odds of adolescent pregnancy (secondary or higher education: AOR <1). Rural residence, poverty, and belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) groups were associated with higher odds. Media exposure and health insurance coverage were inversely associated with adolescent pregnancy, while anaemia showed a modest positive association. Modern contraceptive use was positively associated with adolescent pregnancy. Conclusion: The findings highlight significant socioeconomic and health differentials in adolescent pregnancy in India based on NFHS-5 evidence.