The various maternal and child health related programs implemented in the state have reduced the infant mortality rate. In the last three years, it has been possible to reduce infant mortality from 17,000 to 12,000. Due to this, according to a report by the Central Government, the infant mortality rate in Maharashtra has been reduced to 11.
Various measures are being implemented under the Public Health Department, Women and Child Development Department, Tribal Development Department to reduce the infant mortality rate in the state. Due to the positive implementation of these schemes, the infant mortality rate in the state has significantly reduced. In the state, as many as 17,150 children between the ages of 0 and 5 died in 2022-23.
This decreased significantly in 2023-24 to 13,810 children. Similarly, in 2024-25, 12,438 children died. To reduce child mortality, 60 to 70 thousand sick newborns and low birth weight babies are treated every year through 55 special newborn care units started in all districts. Similarly, ASHA volunteers visit the homes of approximately 1 million newborns every year. Out of this, approximately 90,000 sick children are diagnosed and treated.
Kangaroo Mother Care
Kangaroo Mother Care is used in 55 special newborn care units started in all districts to reduce child mortality. Health workers and ASHAs have been trained to use the Kangaroo Method for low birth weight babies in tribal areas, and parents are counseled through them.
Nutritional Rehabilitation for Malnourished Children
There are 79 Nutritional Rehabilitation Centers functioning at the district and taluka levels in the state for the treatment of malnourished children. In this, seriously and acutely ill malnourished children are admitted and examined, treated and given therapeutic food by medical officers. Also, to ensure complete treatment of the children, the parents are provided with subsidized labor and food facilities.
Efforts by various departments
The Child Death Investigation Committee established by the Public Health Department in each district determines the causes of child deaths occurring every month in the district and takes necessary measures. The Coordination Committee, established to reduce child mortality in tribal districts in coordination with the Women and Child Development Department, reviews the schemes implemented for children with the help of the Tribal Development Department. The measures implemented for children are reviewed every 3 months through a core committee chaired by the Chief Secretary.
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