According to the Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group (MMEIG) 2020 report, India has made significant progress in reducing Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR), declining from 384 in 2000 to 103 in 2020. This achievement is three times higher than the global rate of decline, with the global MMR decreasing from 339 in 2000 to 223 in 2020.

The average annual rate of reduction (ARR) in global MMR during 2000-2020 was 2.07%, while India’s MMR recorded an impressive decline of 6.36%, showcasing the nation’s commitment to maternal health.

Maintaining robust data on maternal mortality and stillbirth, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare released details of MMR and Stillbirth Rate. The report highlights the continuous efforts made by the Government of India to address maternal health challenges.

Key initiatives include:

Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA): Provides free, comprehensive, and quality antenatal care on the 9th day of every month to pregnant women.

Surakshit Matritva Aashwasan (SUMAN): Aims to offer dignified and quality healthcare at no cost, with zero tolerance for service denial to women and newborns visiting public health facilities.

Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram (JSSK): Entitles pregnant women to free delivery, including cesarean sections, in public health institutions, along with free transport, diagnostics, medicines, and more.

LaQshya (Quality Improvement Initiatives): Launched in 2011 to enhance the quality of care in labor rooms and maternity operation theaters.

Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): Provides support for safe delivery, partial compensation for wage loss, and immunization of the first living child. The revamped PMMVY also extends maternity benefits for the second child if it is a girl, aiming to discourage pre-birth sex selection.

Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0: Focuses on strengthening nutritional content and delivery for pregnant women and lactating mothers, promoting health, wellness, and immunity.

These initiatives, complemented by Information Education & Communication (IEC) campaigns, outreach activities, and awareness programs, reflect the comprehensive approach undertaken by the Indian government to ensure maternal and child well-being. The substantial decline in MMR signifies a positive trend towards improved maternal healthcare in the country.