Surge in maternal, child deaths exposes healthcare gaps in Sirsa
Sirsa district is facing serious challenges in maternal and child healthcare, with recent data from the 2024–25 maternal mortality rate (MMR) and child death ratio reports painting a grim picture. The figures have raised alarming concerns over the quality and reach of maternal and child health (MCH) services being provided by the Health Department. Despite continuous public appeals by health officials to encourage institutional deliveries, a large number of families in the district still opt for home births, resulting in a high number of complications and deaths.
According to the latest report, out of 337 neonatal deaths recorded in Sirsa during the year, 137 babies died during home deliveries. Additionally, 22 pregnant women lost their lives while being taken to hospitals. These figures highlight the lack of timely medical support and the deep-rooted reluctance among many rural families to seek hospital-based childbirth services.
The maternal mortality data is equally concerning. In 2024-25, the district recorded 17,650 live births and 17 maternal deaths, resulting in an MMR of 96.3 per one lakh live births. While this figure is close to the national average, some areas, particularly Ellenabad, urban Dabwali, and Odhan block are showing critically high maternal death rates and are in urgent need of improved maternal care infrastructure.
The child mortality statistics also reflect the deteriorating condition of paediatric health in the district. Of the 337 child deaths in the year, 232 were newborns (less than 28 days old), and 88 were under the age of one year. Most of these deaths were attributed to pre-birth and neonatal illnesses, premature deliveries and complications like asphyxia during birth. The April to June 2024 quarter alone witnessed 62 child deaths, followed by 67 in July to September, 88 in October to December, and 120 between January and March 2025 — a steadily worsening trend.
A majority of these deaths occurred in poor and underprivileged households. Of the 39 maternal deaths closely investigated, 14 were from economically deprived families, pointing to the unequal access to quality healthcare services.
Dr Bharat Bhushan, Deputy CMO and Pediatrician at Civil Hospital, Sirsa, stated that a detailed analysis of the report was conducted, and a special social audit was completed. He said in areas with higher death rates, the department had strengthened neonatal care units and trained ASHA workers and other health personnel in maternal and neonatal health protocols. Dr Bhushan acknowledged that some improvement was seen in the current quarter.
He further emphasised that one of the main reasons for child deaths was the lack of institutional deliveries. He noted that despite long-running awareness campaigns, many women still did not opt for hospital deliveries. Another major factor was faulty feeding. Many mothers lacked proper knowledge about breastfeeding techniques, which affected the health of newborns. Dr Bhushan also highlighted that many pregnant women skipped crucial ultrasounds, especially the level-2 scan, which was critical in detecting any abnormalities in the foetus. Early detection through such scans could lead to timely medical intervention and save lives.
Adding to the problem, in many rural areas, newborns suffering from conditions like infections or jaundice were often taken to traditional healers instead of qualified doctors. The delay in proper treatment significantly increased the risk of death. Dr Bhushan stressed that such practices needed to be urgently addressed to prevent further loss of life.
Haryana Tribune