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Review Paper | Public Health | Volume 15 Issue 5, May 2026 | Pages: 1651 - 1653 | India
Reducing Maternal Mortality in India: Progress, Persistent Inequities, and Health System Challenges in Achieving SDG Targets
Abstract: Maternal mortality remains a major public health concern despite significant global and national efforts to improve maternal health outcomes. India has demonstrated considerable progress in reducing the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) over the past two decades through large-scale health system strengthening initiatives, promotion of institutional delivery, and maternal health programs. According to the Sample Registration System (SRS) 2018-20, India's MMR declined to 97 per 100,000 live births, reflecting substantial improvement compared to earlier decades. However, wide interstate disparities, inequities in healthcare access, quality-of-care gaps, shortages of skilled human resources, delayed referrals, and socioeconomic vulnerabilities continue to contribute to preventable maternal deaths. This review article examines the trends, determinants, policy interventions, and persistent challenges associated with maternal mortality in India. The paper critically reviews government initiatives such as Janani Suraksha Yojana, Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram, LaQshya, and comprehensive primary healthcare reforms. The review also highlights the importance of respectful maternity care, emergency obstetric services, health system preparedness, and equitable access to quality maternal healthcare for achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets by 2030. The article concludes with strategic recommendations for strengthening maternal healthcare systems and reducing preventable maternal mortality in India.
Keywords: Maternal Mortality, India, Maternal Health, Quality of Care, SDG 3, Health Systems
How to Cite?: Dr. Arushi Mishra, Dr. Neha Bhardwaj, "Reducing Maternal Mortality in India: Progress, Persistent Inequities, and Health System Challenges in Achieving SDG Targets", Volume 15 Issue 5, May 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1651-1653, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26522115607, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26522115607