Haryana sees decline in maternal mortality rate from 110 to 106
Haryana has recorded a decline in its maternal mortality rate (MMR), dropping from 110 in the 2018-20 period to 106 in 2019-21, according to the latest Special Bulletin on Maternal Mortality in India released by the Sample Registration System (SRS). The four-point improvement highlights the state’s progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of reducing MMR to below 70.
Health Minister Arti Singh Rao reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maternal health, stating, “The state reiterates its commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of reducing the MMR to below 70. Reducing the MMR remains a key priority. A series of strategic initiatives have been implemented to improve the quality, accessibility, and effectiveness of maternal healthcare services at every stage — from pregnancy to delivery and the postpartum period.”
She highlighted a significant rise in institutional deliveries, which have reached 98.3% in 2024-25, as per Health Management Information System data. “This reflects enhanced service coverage and increased confidence among the public in government healthcare facilities,” she added.
To further bolster maternal health infrastructure, all labour rooms at government delivery points across the state have been upgraded and are now fully equipped with essential drugs, equipment, and logistics. Best practices in labour room management are being followed to ensure safe deliveries and improved maternal outcomes.
Dr Rippudaman Singh Dhillon, Mission Director, National Health Mission (NHM), Haryana, emphasised the state’s focused interventions. “NHM Haryana has rolled out and effectively implemented a range of impactful policies and programmes, including High-Risk Pregnancy Guidance Note for systematic identification and management of high-risk pregnancies, Janani Surakshit Maah, a dedicated monthly campaign focused on addressing high-risk pregnancies, extending Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan to strengthen antenatal care services across the state, and regular monitoring at the state and district levels — ensuring accountability and improved service delivery.”
He said, “Centrally sponsored schemes like the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram and Janani Suraksha Yojana continue to be effectively implemented in the state. Under JSSK, pregnant women availing government healthcare facilities are entitled to free drugs, diagnostics, diet, blood transfusions, and referral transport — thereby ensuring zero out-of-pocket expenditure.”
Haryana Tribune