Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR)
Context: The Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) in India declined to 93 per lakh live births in 2019-21 from 97 in 2018-20, and 103 in 2017-2019, according to the latest data released by the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India.
Important Pointers:
► Definition: MMR is defined as the number of maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in a given time period.
► Significance: It is a vital indicator of the reproductive health status and quality of maternal healthcare services.
► Global Target (SDG Goal 3.1): The UN aims to reduce global MMR to below 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030.
► Global Concern: According to the WHO, over 700 women died daily in 2023 from preventable pregnancy and childbirth-related causes.
► India’s Progress: India’s MMR declined to 93 (per 100,000 live births) in 2019–21 from 97 in 2018–20, showing improvement in maternal healthcare.
► Age-based Trends: MMR is highest among women aged 20–29, followed by the 30–34 age group.
► States with High MMR: ▪ Madhya Pradesh – 175 ▪ Assam – 167 ▪ Uttar Pradesh – 151 ▪ Odisha – 135 ▪ Chhattisgarh – 132 ▪ West Bengal – 109 ▪ Haryana – 106