Fewer Mothers Are Dying During Childbirth
Children Are Safer, Too
India’s progress isn’t just limited to mothers. Children are faring better, too—thanks to better neonatal care, nutrition, immunisation, and awareness.
The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)—which counts babies who don’t survive their first year—has decreased from 39 per 1,000 live births in 2014 to 27 in 2021.
The Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR)—focusing on the first 28 days of life—has also dropped from 26 to 19 per 1,000 live births.
The Under-Five Mortality Rate, which tracks the deaths of children under five, saw a decline from 45 in 2014 to 31 in 2021.
These numbers reflect better healthcare delivery systems, early diagnosis, and increased focus on mother and child welfare.
Leading States Set the Bar
Even more promising is the fact that eight Indian states have already met the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of achieving an MMR of 70 or below well before the 2030 deadline. These states include:
Kerala (20)
Maharashtra (38)
Telangana (45)
Andhra Pradesh (46)
Tamil Nadu (49)
Jharkhand (51)
Gujarat (53)
Karnataka (63)
Outpacing the Global Average
Perhaps the biggest win is that India’s progress in reducing maternal and child mortality is faster than the global average. This is a testament to ongoing efforts by the Health Ministry and state governments, as well as countless healthcare workers on the ground who make a real difference every day.
It’s a reminder that steady, focused efforts in public health can save lives—millions of them.