This paper constructs a determinants-based comprehensive indicator of health that can better capture the health status of population by taking into account the necessary facilities that promote a longer as well as disease-free life. Annual time series of health index comprising three sub-indices, namely, material access index, health infrastructure index and healthcare utilisation index, are constructed for fifteen major States of India for the period 1983-84 to 2005-06. The health index indicates an increased access to basic facilities over the years; levels of access being still low, health infrastructure being stagnant since mid-1990s and low levels of health care utilisation. Better rural health status requires reducing health risks, strengthening health infrastructure and increasing health awareness.