Visakhapatnam: The economic status-wise distribution of suicide incidents in Andhra Pradesh in 2024 has revealed a stark reality: approximately 50 per cent (4,149) of the total 8,302 suicide victims belonged to the income group earning up to Rs one lakh per year. Furthermore, an additional 39 per cent (3,177) individuals fell into the Rs 1-5 lakh annual income bracket. This means that around 89 per cent of all suicide victims in the state earned less than Rs 5 lakh annually.
Financial Distress as a Major Driver
Mental health experts have pointed out that financial distress is one of the primary reasons for family disputes, social stress, and escalating tensions within households, often driving individuals to take their own lives. The data underscores the link between economic hardship and suicide risk.
Comparative Data from 2023
Economic status-wise distribution of suicides in 2023 showed that 4,357 victims belonged to the Rs one lakh income group, 3,254 to the Rs 1-5 lakh group, 925 to the Rs 5-10 lakh group, and 148 to the Rs 10 lakh and above group. The trend indicates that lower-income groups consistently account for the majority of suicides.
The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report on suicides has highlighted that low-income groups commit more suicides in many parts of the state. Financial hardship is considered a top risk factor for suicide. Experts note that being in debt, facing financial distress, unemployment, and homelessness are each associated with increased suicide risk.
A Tragic Case in Kadapa
In December 2024, a 40-year-old farmer, along with his wife and two children, ended their lives at Diddekunta in Kadapa district due to financial hardship. This incident underscores the gravity of the financial distress faced by many families in the region.
A senior police officer in the Vizag region observed that most youngsters who ended their lives in rural pockets of the state did so due to financial distress. Low income is one of the reasons for many problems, including some youngsters not being able to get married, the officer added.
Suicide Rate Above National Average
Andhra Pradesh's suicide rate continues to remain above the national average. The state recorded a suicide rate of 15.5 per one lakh population in 2024, compared to the national average of 12.2. Psychiatrists have expressed that this rate clearly indicates the need for stronger mental health interventions and counselling systems, especially in semi-urban and rural areas. They added that the absence of financial stability can trap individuals in abusive environments and lead to extreme steps.
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About the Author
Nalla Ram Babu is a Special Correspondent at the Times of India-Visakhapatnam. He reports on crime, rural development, road transport, Indian Navy, seafood industry, weather, research in agriculture, legal, civic issues, and data-driven stories. He holds a postgraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communication.
