Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR)

09.09.2025

Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR)

Context
Kerala’s maternal mortality ratio (MMR) has shown a concerning rise from 18 to 30 deaths per 100,000 live births during 2021-2023, according to the latest Sample Registration System bulletin.

Definition
MMR measures the number of maternal deaths per 100,000 live births due to pregnancy-related complications.

Recent trend

The Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) in India declined to 93 per lakh live births in 2019-21 from 97 in 2018-20, and 103 in 2017-2019, according to the latest data released by the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India.

Current Trends and Regional Disparities

Despite the overall decline in India’s MMR, certain states continue to report alarmingly high maternal death rates. The highest MMR figures were recorded in:

• Madhya Pradesh: 175
• Assam: 167
• Uttar Pradesh: 151
• Odisha: 135
• Chhattisgarh: 132
• West Bengal: 109
• Haryana: 106

Major Causes of Maternal Death

• Global maternal deaths: Over 700 women/day due to preventable pregnancy and childbirth causes (WHO, 2023).
   
• Frequency: Nearly every 2 minutes a maternal death occurs worldwide.
   

Key factors in India:

• Pregnancy and childbirth complications
   
• Unsafe abortions
   
• Delayed or lack of medical care
   
• Limited access to skilled healthcare professionals
   

High-risk regions: Low- and lower-middle-income countries, including parts of India, account for >90% of maternal deaths.

Government Initiatives

• India’s progress in reducing MMR can be attributed to various flagship programs and healthcare initiatives, including:
• Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA): Providing quality antenatal care to pregnant women on a fixed day every month.
• Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY): Promoting institutional deliveries to ensure safe childbirth.
• Ayushman Bharat – Health and Wellness Centres: Providing comprehensive primary healthcare services, including maternal and child health services.
• POSHAN Abhiyaan: Focused on improving nutritional outcomes for pregnant women and children.

Conclusion
Addressing maternal mortality remains vital for societal progress. Integrated healthcare access, community engagement, and aligned public policies will pave the way for safer motherhood, contributing to healthier future generations and sustainable national development.