Bengaluru Records Highest Suicide Rate Among Major Indian Cities: NCRB Data Explained

Bengaluru has recorded the highest suicide rate among major Indian cities in recent years, according to data published by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).

The NCRB’s Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India (ADSI) reports show that Bengaluru’s suicide rate remained close to 20 per lakh population during 2022, 2023, and 2024, placing it at the top among India’s large cities on this measure.

Why in News?

The latest NCRB suicide statistics have drawn attention to the rising mental health and social stress challenges in major urban centres, especially Bengaluru.

Although Delhi recorded a higher total number of suicides, Bengaluru reported a significantly higher suicide rate when adjusted for population size.

What is NCRB and ADSI?

National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)

The National Crime Records Bureau is a central agency functioning under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

It is responsible for collecting, analysing, and publishing crime-related data across India.

What is ADSI?

ADSI stands for:

Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India

The annual report provides data related to:

• Suicide cases
• Accidental deaths
• Causes of suicides
• State-wise and city-wise statistics
• Demographic and economic patterns

The NCRB releases these reports every year for States, Union Territories, and selected mega-cities.

Bengaluru Suicide Data Explained

According to NCRB data:

Suicide Numbers in Bengaluru

• 2022: 2,313 suicides
• 2023: 2,370 suicides
• 2024: 2,403 suicides

The suicide rate in Bengaluru remained close to:

Around 20 suicides per lakh population

This was the highest among major Indian cities covered under the NCRB’s 53 mega-cities category.

Comparison with Delhi

Delhi recorded:

• 2,905 suicides in 2024

However, due to Delhi’s larger population base, its suicide rate stood at:

9.8 suicides per lakh population

This was significantly lower than Bengaluru’s rate.

Major Causes Mentioned in NCRB Data

The NCRB report identified several major causes linked to suicides in India.

Family Problems and Illness

According to the 2023 data:

• Family-related issues
• Illness, including mental illness

together accounted for nearly half of all suicide cases in India.

Economic Vulnerability

The report also highlighted financial stress as a major factor.

Around:

66% of suicide victims in 2023 earned less than ₹1 lakh annually

This indicates the strong connection between economic insecurity and mental health challenges.

Why Are Urban Suicide Rates Rising?

Public health studies often link rising suicide rates in metropolitan cities with multiple social and economic pressures.

Commonly Discussed Urban Stress Factors

• Migration-related stress
• Work pressure
• Social isolation
• Rising living costs
• Weak community support systems
• Mental health challenges

Large cities often attract migrants seeking employment opportunities, but rapid urbanisation can also create emotional and financial pressures.

Mental Health and Public Awareness

Experts have repeatedly stressed the importance of:

• Mental health awareness
• Counselling support
• Workplace wellness programmes
• Accessible healthcare services
• Community support systems

Mental health professionals say early intervention and open conversations can help reduce emotional distress and prevent crises.