India recorded approximately 24,700 maternal deaths in 2023 due to complications from pregnancy, which accounts for nearly 10 per cent of global maternal deaths, as reported in a study published by The Lancet. The research, conducted by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at Washington University, indicates that worldwide, an estimated 2.4 lakh women died due to pregnancy-related issues, resulting in a maternal mortality ratio of approximately 190 per lakh live births. This reflects a decline from the ratio of 321 in 1990, although it remains significantly above the Sustainable Development Goal target of fewer than 70 deaths per lakh live births by 2030.

Preventable causes, such as haemorrhage and hypertensive disorders, were reported to be the leading factors contributing to these deaths on a global scale in 2023. Despite reductions observed over the last thirty years, the pace of improvement has reportedly slowed since 2015. Some regions even experienced reversals in progress, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic years, highlighting the challenges faced in global maternal healthcare advancements.

Comparative Progress and State-Level Discrepancies

India has achieved a significant 77 per cent reduction in maternal mortality since 1990, markedly surpassing the global average reduction of 41 per cent. This consistent decline has moved India closer to the Sustainable Development Goals target for maternal mortality, with the national average now reported to be 88, according to Anupriya Patel, the Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare in the Rajya Sabha. Such progress places India in a position to potentially meet the 2030 objective, although regional disparities remain a concern.

In several southern and western states such as Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra, maternal mortality rates have fallen to levels nearly half of the global benchmark. Enhanced public health infrastructure, higher rates of institutional deliveries, and improved access to timely medical care have contributed to significantly safer pregnancy outcomes in these areas. These successes highlight the effectiveness of regional health policies and programmes.

Conversely, numerous northern and eastern states exhibit maternal mortality rates that exceed the global benchmark by a substantial margin. States like Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh report levels that are double the global standard. Furthermore, regions such as Assam and Bihar also continue to have elevated maternal death rates. This contrast raises concerns regarding healthcare equity and the need for focused interventions in areas lagging behind.

Challenges Ahead and the Path Forward

The disparity in maternal health outcomes across India’s states underscores the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access and quality. Policymakers must address the root causes of these inequities to ensure that advancements are not solely concentrated in specific regions. It is crucial that all women, regardless of their geographical location, receive the necessary support and resources to have safe pregnancies.

Expanding education and awareness about maternal health, alongside improving healthcare infrastructure in underperforming states, could play a vital role in bridging these gaps. Targeted programmes that focus on high-risk regions could further alleviate the burden of maternal mortality and help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals in the coming years.

As the data reflects a significant drop in maternal deaths across the country, the emphasis now shifts towards ensuring equitable health outcomes. The collective goal remains clear: to reach a stage where all women in India can expect safe pregnancies and childbirth, irrespective of their socio-economic or geographical conditions.

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