Goa, July 17 -- Goa has recorded an average of 20 deaths per month from head injuries between January 2024 and May 2025, placing the state at the top of the national chart for such fatalities relative to its population, according to one of India's leading neurosurgeons, Dr Vernon Velho.

"Given Goa's population and demography, it is now the capital of head injuries," said Dr Velho, Head of the Department of Neurosurgery at JJ Hospital, Mumbai. "Despite having one of the highest literacy rates in the country, Goa is seeing a worsening trend in head trauma deaths. Helmets for pillion riders must be made mandatory and strictly enforced."

A total of 338 people died of head injuries during this 17-month period, with 301 male and 37 female vic...