Convulsions or seizures in the neonatal period is the most commonly seen sign of neurologic dysfunction. They are often difficult to recognize as they can mimic normal movements and are frequently transient. Unlike in older children where etiology may not be evident, most seizures in the neonatal period have an underlying etiology either in the form of a neurologic or a metabolic abnormality. Early recognition of seizures and prompt treatment based on etiology is important to prevent long-term sequelae. Despite prompt treatment long-term prognosis can be poor in certain conditions such as severe perinatal asphyxia or inborn errors of metabolism. In India the most frequent cause of neonatal convulsions is asphyxia followed by acute metabolic abnormalities and meningitis.