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India's Maternal Health Goal: Progress Slows, 2030 Target Uncertain
31 Mar
Summary
- India's maternal mortality ratio was 116 deaths per lakh live births in 2023.
- The country accounts for one-tenth of global maternal deaths annually.
- South India states are on track, but North Indian states pull up the average.
A recent study highlights India's struggle to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal of reducing the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) to below 70 deaths per 1 lakh live births. Although India has seen a substantial reduction in maternal deaths since 1990, the rate of decline has slowed. In 2023, the MMR stood at 116 deaths per lakh live births, contributing significantly to the 2.4 lakh global maternal deaths that year.
Experts note that while southern states are progressing well, states like Assam and Uttar Pradesh are impacting the national average. Assam's MMR dropped from 215 to 110 between 2015-17 and 2021-2023, while UP's fell from 197 to 141 in the same period. These figures, however, are still above the target. Preventable causes like hemorrhage and hypertensive disorders account for nearly half of these deaths.
Concerns are also raised about the methodology of some global studies, which may not accurately reflect India's demographic diversity and large number of births. Despite these challenges, India is recognized for making substantial improvements in MMR since 1990, alongside other nations like Bangladesh and Nepal. Strengthening primary healthcare and focusing on integrated maternal and child health are crucial steps to meet the SDG targets.
