India has made remarkable progress in reducing its Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR), according to the latest Sample Registration System (SRS) report. The national MMR has declined from 130 per 100,000 live births in 2014–16 to 93 in 2019–21, demonstrating the success of focused public health initiatives and improved maternal healthcare access. Multiple states have achieved notable reductions, with some surpassing global health targets.

Important Key Points:

• India’s MMR has declined to 93 per 100,000 live births as per the SRS 2021 report.
• This marks a 37-point reduction from the 2014–16 level of 130.
• Karnataka achieved a 41% reduction in MMR, reaching 63, thus meeting the UN SDG target ahead of time.
• Maharashtra, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu have already surpassed the SDG target of an MMR below 70.
• Assam showed the highest reduction among Indian states, decreasing from 195 to 167.
• Bihar also improved its MMR, reducing it from 118 to 100, better than the national decline average.
• Since 1990, India’s MMR has declined by 86%, compared to a global decline of 48%.
• Other improvements include a 78% drop in under-five mortality rate, 71% in infant mortality, and 70% in neonatal mortality.
• Key contributing schemes: Ayushman Bharat, Janani Suraksha Yojana, and Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram.
• These outcomes reflect India’s strong policy focus and healthcare reforms aimed at maternal and child health.