It is premature to celebrate the improved maternal mortality ratio (MMR), which now stands at 97 deaths per one lakh live births in comparison to 120 deaths in 2016, as a detailed analysis of the figures exposes a deep urban-rural divide in the healthcare sector. The MMR is the number of mothers who die from pregnancy related complications for every one live birth. As per data released by the Union Health ministry, it has been found that MMR is the lowest in Kerala (19), but high in states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Assam (over 130), etc. As a matter of fact, Assam has earned the dubious distinction of having the highest MMR in the country. From figures published recently, it has also been found that MMR is relatively low in states with higher literacy rates, but it is just the opposite in states still suffering from illiteracy, ignorance and lack of development. Thus, there is an urgent need to focus on both healthcare and education sectors to bring MMR down at par with developed nations. For example, Kerala having the lowest MMR is understandable as the state has the highest literacy rate in the country along with good healthcare services, which considerably reduces the risk of deaths during pregnancy. In contrast, Uttar Pradesh is lagging behind in these two sectors, despite being the most populated state in the country. In this state, quality healthcare and education are available only in major cities and towns, while rural areas are devoid of any notable facilities. Regular check-ups during pregnancy, adequate iron and folic acid supplements and assistance by qualified health professionals during delivery, all remain distant luxuries for the women living in rural areas of the state as well as in the country. The shortcomings should be addressed on a war-footing as by simply providing such facilities during pregnancy, the nation can bring down maternal deaths considerably.
Higher MMR in rural areas also highlight the fact that many states are not sincere in implementing schemes like Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Yojana, which are specially aimed at preventing untimely deaths of would-be mothers. As the figures show gross negligence on the part of a number of states, the Centre should immediately intervene to ensure that the benefits of all maternity schemes reach the targeted sections of society. Although, it is predicted that at the present rate India will be able to lower MMR to sub-70 by 2030, it should not be forgotten that such deaths can be more effectively prevented by timely intervention. It has been found that MMR is still high among women belonging to marginalised sections of society. To bring down MMR further, adequate medical facilities need to be provided to them. Any failure in this regard will mean many more tragic deaths, which a welfare nation like India cannot allow to go on indefinitely.