About the Scheme
An initiative to provide assured, comprehensive, and quality antenatal care to all pregnant women in India, especially those in underserved areas, through a minimum package of services on the 9th of every month.
Target Beneficiaries: 2.4 crore pregnant women annually (in 2nd/3rd trimesters) receiving fixed-day free comprehensive antenatal care on 9th of every month through government health facilities and specialist physicians
Implementing Agency: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, State Health Departments, District Health Societies.
Key Features
- Designated day (9th of every month) for free antenatal check-ups at public health facilities.
- Provision of a minimum package of services including medical check-ups, investigations (blood tests, urine tests, ultrasound), and medicines.
- Identification and tracking of high-risk pregnancies for appropriate management and referral.
- Encouragement of private sector doctors and volunteers to offer services at public health facilities.
- Counseling on nutrition, safe delivery practices, and postnatal care.
Eligibility Criteria
- All pregnant women residing in India.
- Pregnant women in any trimester of their pregnancy.
- Special focus on women from rural, remote, and tribal areas.