Gujarat Achieves Major Decline in Maternal Mortality Rate, Ranks Fifth Lowest in India

Ahmedabad | Gujarat — Gujarat has achieved a significant public health milestone, with the state’s maternal mortality rate (MMR) falling to 51 per lakh live births in 2023, according to the latest Sample Registration System (SRS) data. This places Gujarat fifth among major Indian states with the lowest maternal mortality rate, reflecting steady progress in maternal healthcare services.

The figures highlight a sharp decline from 91 in 2016, 57 in 2020, and 53 in 2021, showcasing year-on-year improvements. With India’s national average maternal mortality rate currently at 88 per lakh live births (SRS 2021-23), Gujarat’s achievement stands out as a model of effective healthcare intervention.

Leadership and Initiatives Driving Progress

State officials attribute this success to comprehensive maternal health programs rolled out by the Health and Family Welfare Department under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and the leadership of Health Minister Hrishikesh Patel.

“Every mother’s life matters, and reducing maternal deaths has been one of our top priorities,” said Health Minister Hrishikesh Patel in a statement. “Through early pregnancy registration, high-risk case monitoring, institutional deliveries, and strong follow-up care, we are creating a safer environment for mothers and newborns across Gujarat.”

Focus on Preventive and Institutional Care

Key measures include:

Early pregnancy registration and ensuring at least four antenatal check-ups (ANC).

Special monitoring of high-risk pregnancies.

Promotion of institutional deliveries and post-natal check-ups.

Regular reviews of maternal death cases to strengthen preventive strategies.

Schemes such as the Khilkhilat Yojana, which benefited 19.2 lakh mothers and 12.5 lakh newborns in 2024-25, have played a crucial role in supporting maternal and child health.

Additionally, financial assistance is being provided to high-risk pregnant women—₹15,000 under 19 criteria and ₹12,000 under 11 criteria—to ensure better access to care and reduce complications.

Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Matrutva Abhiyan

Since June 2016, Gujarat has implemented the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Matrutva Abhiyan (PMSMA), under which gynecologists provide specialized antenatal check-ups at public health institutions. Currently, 502 private gynecologists participate, conducting services twice a month, on the 9th and 24th.

Sustainable Development Goal Target

The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.1 aims to reduce the maternal mortality ratio to below 70 by 2030. With its MMR already down to 51, Gujarat is on track to exceed this global target well ahead of time.

Public health experts say Gujarat’s results are encouraging for other states. “Gujarat’s decline in maternal mortality shows that strong institutional care and early detection of risks can save lives. The challenge now is to sustain this momentum,” said a senior health analyst.