India Achieves Maternal Mortality Goal of 100 Deaths Per Lakh Births, Says Nadda

New Delhi, March 04, 2025 – India has reached a major milestone in healthcare, achieving the National Health Policy (NHP) goal of reducing the maternal mortality rate (MMR) to 100 deaths per one lakh live births, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda announced on Tuesday. Speaking at the ninth meeting of the National Health Mission’s (NHM) Mission Steering Group, Nadda highlighted that India saw an impressive 83% drop in MMR between 1990 and 2020 far surpassing the global decline in maternal deaths over the same period.

The meeting, held to guide health policies under the NHM, also brought attention to other big wins. Nadda noted a 69% reduction in the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) in India during this time, compared to a 55% drop globally. The country also recorded a 75% decline in the mortality rate for children under five years old, outpacing the global figure of 58%.

Nadda emphasized the importance of turning health plans into action, especially at the grassroots level. He stressed that Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) play a key role in making this happen. “We need to boost the skills and training of CMOs so they can deliver the best results for healthcare programs where it matters most,” he said.

The minister also praised the work of ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers, who are vital to India’s healthcare system. He called for better support for them, including updated incentives and higher honorariums, to improve their welfare and effectiveness.

On the technology front, Nadda applauded advancements in health infrastructure, such as the Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita and Maitri (BHISHM). However, he urged officials to ensure these new tools meet high-quality standards.

India’s progress shows it’s moving faster than the rest of the world in saving mothers and children, a achievement Nadda says comes from strong policies and teamwork on the ground.

Source: PIB