Maharashtra Records Significant Decline in Infant Mortality Rate
Pune, 31st March 2025: Maharashtra has seen a steady decline in its infant mortality rate (IMR) over the past five years, according to the Public Health Department. In 2018, the state recorded 19 infant deaths per 1,000 live births. However, a recent survey by central health agencies shows this figure has now dropped to 11 per 1,000 live births.
To sustain and further improve child healthcare, the state has formed a core committee, led by the Chief Secretary, which reviews child health measures every three months. Additionally, a special coordination committee has been set up to address child mortality in tribal regions. At the district level, Child Mortality Investigation Committees analyze infant deaths monthly to implement corrective actions.
Maharashtra has also strengthened its neonatal healthcare infrastructure by establishing 55 Special Newborn Care Units (SNCUs) across various districts. These units provide medical support to approximately 60,000–70,000 premature or critically ill newborns each year. The Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) method, which significantly improves survival rates among low-birth-weight infants, is being widely implemented. Officials report that most infants treated in these units recover successfully and are discharged in good health.
Key Highlights of Maharashtra’s Child Health Programs:
Free treatment and nutritional support for infants aged 0-1 year under the Janani Shishu Suraksha Yojana.
Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) technique to support low-birth-weight infants, especially in tribal communities.
Training programs for healthcare workers (ANMs, ASHAs) and parental counseling to ensure better infant care.
Statewide home visits by ASHA workers for newborn health monitoring.
Referral system for critically ill infants to ensure timely specialized medical care.
79 Nutrition Rehabilitation Centers at district and taluka levels to support malnourished children.
Between April 2022 and March 2023, the state recorded 17,150 child deaths (ages 0-5). The number dropped to 13,810 between April 2023 and March 2024. In the current financial year, from April 2024 to February 2025, the figure has further reduced to 12,438.
