Chandigarh: Under the leadership of Haryana’s Health and Family Welfare Minister Arti Singh Rao, the Health Department has achieved a notable milestone in maternal health. According to the latest Sample Registration System (SRS) Special Bulletin on Maternal Mortality in India (2020–22), the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) in the state has declined from 106 (2019–21) to 89, a remarkable 17-point improvement.
Health Minister Arti Singh Rao said this achievement reflects the state’s sustained efforts to strengthen maternal healthcare services. The reduction implies that approximately 300 more mothers’ lives were saved during this period due to the concerted efforts of dedicated medical and health staff across the state.
The Health Department remains committed to reducing the MMR further, with the ultimate goal of reaching the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of fewer than 70 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births.
She said to enhance the quality and accessibility of maternal healthcare, several key measures have been implemented. All government delivery points have been modernised and are now fully equipped with essential drugs, equipment, and logistics to ensure safe and respectful childbirth experiences. The number of designated First Referral Units (FRUs) capable of performing C-sections has increased to 87, ensuring timely emergency obstetric care. In addition, systematic identification and management of high-risk pregnancies are being undertaken through the HRP Guidance Note. Surakshit Janani Maah (SJM), a monthly campaign to screen and support high-risk pregnancies, is being run to improve early detection and intervention.
Routine reviews at the state and district levels, along with one-to-one maternal death audits, are helping in guiding data-driven interventions and policy reforms.
Speaking on the achievement, Dr. R.S. Dhillon, Mission Director, National Health Mission (NHM), Haryana, highlighted that institutional deliveries in the state have reached 98.3% in 2024–25 (as per HMIS data), indicating improved public confidence in government health services and broader access to safe deliveries.
Additionally, centrally sponsored schemes like the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK) and the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) are being effectively implemented. These programmes ensure that pregnant women utilising public health facilities receive free medications, diagnostic services, meals, blood transfusions, and referral transportation. This initiative eliminates out-of-pocket expenses and enhances access to healthcare for everyone.
The Health Department of Haryana is committed to improving maternal health outcomes. Through strategic policies, strong infrastructure, and community-centred programmes, the state is making significant progress toward its Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets and a healthier future for all mothers.