Maharashtra Grapples with High Infant Mortality Rates Over Seven Years

Mumbai: Over the past seven years, Maharashtra has recorded a staggering 117,000 infant deaths, translating to an alarming daily average of nearly 46, according to data presented in the state legislative assembly. The figures, disclosed by Health Minister Tanaji Sawant in response to a query from Congress MLA Zirwal Narhari Sitaram, highlight a persistent public health challenge in the state.

The data, sourced from the Health Management Information System (HMIS), spans the period from 2018 to 2024. It reveals that 2018 saw the highest number of infant deaths at 18,183, followed by 16,892 in 2019. The numbers dipped slightly in 2020 to 15,683, possibly due to underreporting during the COVID-19 pandemic, but rose again to 16,913 in 2021. Subsequent years showed a marginal decline, with 16,672 deaths in 2022, 16,497 in 2023, and 16,332 in 2024.

These statistics underscore the ongoing struggle to reduce infant mortality in Maharashtra, despite efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure. The Health Minister’s response did not elaborate on specific causes or measures being taken to address the issue, leaving room for further scrutiny of the state’s public health policies.

The disclosure has sparked concern among lawmakers, with Sitaram’s query reflecting growing unease about the state’s ability to protect its youngest citizens. The data, while stark, serves as a critical call to action for authorities to intensify efforts to safeguard infant lives across Maharashtra.