Key Achievements in Maternal and Neonatal Health in India
Over the past 30 years, India has made significant strides in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates, achieving improvements well above the global averages.
Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR)
- The MMR in India has decreased by 83%, compared to the global average reduction of 42%.
Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR)
- India's NMR has fallen by 65%, surpassing the global reduction of 51%.
Government Efforts and Initiatives
Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda highlighted the role of combined efforts by the Central and State governments in these health improvements.
Financial Commitments
- The budget for the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan has increased significantly from ₹935.74 lakh in 2021-22 to ₹8,312.06 lakh in 2023-24.
Healthcare Initiatives
- Regular awareness and health camps are conducted to ensure pregnant women receive adequate care.
- Programs such as Village Health Sanitation and Nutrition Days and Mobile Medical Units target areas with limited healthcare access.
Regional Disparities in Mortality Rates
The Minister provided data showing varying mortality rates across different states, highlighting regional disparities.
- Kerala and Maharashtra reported significantly lower mortality rates.
- States like Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh continue to face higher mortality rates.