India’s Maternal Mortality Ratio Falls to 88 per 100,000 Live Births – Key NHM Initiatives Highlighted — UPSC Current Affairs | March 13, 2026
India’s Maternal Mortality Ratio Falls to 88 per 100,000 Live Births – Key NHM Initiatives Highlighted
The Registrar General’s 2021‑23 bulletin shows India’s Maternal Mortality Ratio falling to 88 per 100,000 live births, driven by NHM schemes such as JSY, JSSK, PMSMA, LaQshya, and SUMAN, alongside infrastructure upgrades. These interventions are pivotal for UPSC aspirants to understand health‑sector reforms, SDG‑3 targets, and the impact of cash‑incentive and quality‑improvement programmes.
Overview The latest bulletin (2021‑23) released by the Registrar General of India shows that the MMR has declined to 88 per lakh live births . This improvement follows a suite of interventions under the NHM that target institutional deliveries, high‑risk pregnancy tracking, and quality of care. Key Developments (Recent Three Years) Institutional deliveries crossed 5.93 crore , driven by cash‑incentive schemes. JSY and JSSK ensure zero‑cost care for mother and child. PMSMA and its extended version target high‑risk pregnancies with additional ASHA visits and financial incentives. LaQshya and SUMAN raise standards of care. Infrastructure upgrades: functional FRUs , dedicated MCH wings, obstetric HDU/ICU, and Birth Waiting Homes in remote areas. Outreach mechanisms such as Monthly Village Health, Sanitation and Nutrition Days, and mobile camps improve access in tribal and hard‑to‑reach regions. Distribution of MCP Card and Safe Motherhood Booklet enhances awareness. Important Facts MMR reduced to 88 per 1,00,000 live births (2021‑23). Ins