HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, May 8: Assam has recorded a significant drop in its Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR), marking a major public health milestone for the state, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Thursday.
Citing data from the latest Sample Registration System (SRS) 2019–21 report, Sarma said the state’s MMR has fallen from 195 to 167—a 28-point reduction that stands as the highest decline among all Indian states.
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“This marks a turning point for Assam, which no longer holds the highest MMR in the country,” he said, attributing the progress to improved maternal healthcare infrastructure and effective health interventions.
The Chief Minister also reported positive trends in child health, noting that the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) had improved from 38 to 36. He linked the gains to enhanced neonatal care, increased health awareness, and the expansion of community-based health services.
Sarma credited the central government for supporting Assam’s health reforms. “This progress has been made possible under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he said, adding that the Centre’s focus on strengthening healthcare in rural and underserved regions played a crucial role.
He also praised frontline workers, including ASHA personnel and other healthcare providers, for their commitment.
“Immense gratitude is due to our tireless healthcare workers who have made this achievement a reality,” Sarma said.
As per the SRS report, the all-India MMR for 2019-21 is 93 deaths per 1,00,000 live births.
The all-India IMR for 2021 is 27 deaths per thousand live births. (With inputs from PTI)
