Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the significant progress made by the state in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates. Citing the figures, he stated that in the early 2000s, Assam had recorded one of the highest Maternal Mortality Ratios (MMR) in the country.
This data was released by the Government of India's Sample Registration System (SRS). Addressing a press conference in Guwahati on Thursday, CM Sarma said that the MMR has declines to 125 during 2020-22 from 490 in 2001-03.
He said, "In 2001-03, Assam’s maternal mortality ratio was 490 — the highest in India at the time, while the national average stood at 301".
He attributed the steady decline in these grim statistics to robust healthcare reforms and sustained efforts post the implementation of the National Health Mission (NHM).
“After the launch of NHM, Assam witnessed consistent progress. By 2018-20, the MMR was brought down to 195, and according to data published in 2022, the ratio has further declined to 125," he said.
He further noted that the state's transformation in healthcare delivery had played a vital role in achieving this milestone.
“This dramatic drop in maternal deaths has been possible because of a structural transformation in the health sector,” he asserted.
Remarkably, Assam has also managed to outperform states like Uttar Pradesh in maternal mortality metrics. The Chief Minister outlined a forward-looking plan to strengthen healthcare accessibility across the state.
“"Assam is no longer the highest MMR state of the country. Assam’s MMR is now better than Madhya Pradesh (159), Chhattisgarh (141), Uttar Pradesh (141) and Odisha (136) as per Sample Registration System (SRS) 2020-22," the CM said. In the next five years, we plan to establish a 100-seat medical college in each of the state’s constituencies,” he announced.
He also informed the press about the parallel improvement in infant mortality statistics. “The infant mortality rate has come down from 68 to 32 per 1,000 live births — a reduction of more than 50%,” the Chief Minister said.
Meanwhile, taking to platform 'X', CM Sarma shared, "A Landmark Milestone in Assam’s Healthcare Journey
From a Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) of 480 in 2006 to 125 in 2022 — Assam has recorded one of the sharpest declines in maternal deaths in India. This transformation reflects our unwavering commitment to maternal and child health — a journey I have personally been part of, first as Health Minister and now as Chief Minister. A matter of immense personal satisfaction. Every number in this decline represents a life saved, a mother embraced by her family, and a future made secure. I thank our tireless doctors, nurses, ASHA workers, and health officials across Assam. Your dedication has made this possible."
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