Did Assam Achieve a Record Decline in Maternal Mortality Ratio?

Guwahati, May 8 (NationPress) Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Thursday that the state has achieved a remarkable decline in the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR), now ranking the lowest among all states in India.

The MMR signifies the number of maternal fatalities (linked to pregnancy or childbirth) per 100,000 live births.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, CM Sarma highlighted this historic achievement in public health, as reported in the latest Sample Registration System (SRS) 2019–21 findings.

He noted that Assam’s MMR has decreased from 195 to 167, marking an impressive 28-point drop, which is the highest improvement among all Indian states.

This improvement signifies a transformative moment, as Assam is no longer the state with the highest MMR, showcasing advancements in maternal healthcare systems and successful health initiatives, according to his post.

The Chief Minister also mentioned the positive developments in child health.

The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) has improved from 38 to 36, reflecting enhanced access to neonatal care, increased community awareness, and better health services. These milestones indicate that Assam is steadily advancing towards improved health outcomes for mothers and children.

CM Sarma expressed appreciation towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this progress, mentioning, "These achievements have been facilitated under the visionary leadership and steadfast support of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The central government’s emphasis on health reforms, particularly in rural and underserved areas, has formed the backbone for such results."

He added, "We owe immense gratitude to our dedicated healthcare workers, ASHAs, and countless individuals who have tirelessly worked to bring this milestone to fruition."

Previously, Assam was considered one of the poorest-performing states concerning maternal mortality ratios.

The Registrar General of India's 'Special Bulletin on Maternal Mortality' for 2018 to 2020, published in 2022, reported 195 deaths per lakh live births for the state.

Between 2016 and 2018, the ratio was 215. In 2005, it stood at 480 per one lakh live births.

On a national level, India has made notable progress in both maternal and infant mortality rates. Anupriya Patel, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, mentioned in Parliament in March that the country’s MMR has decreased by 33 points, from 130 in 2014-16 to 97 in 2018-20 per lakh live births.

Similarly, she added, "The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) of the nation has reduced from 39 per 1,000 live births in 2014 to 28 per 1,000 live births in 2020."