Maharashtra has recorded a decline in child mortality, with the rate dropping to 16 deaths per 1,000 live births, according to the latest Sample Registration System (SRS) report from the central government. The state had reported 19 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2018.
Maharashtra has consistently performed better than the national average, though states like Kerala and Delhi continue to fare better. The state’s Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) stands at 16 per 1,000 live births, compared to Kerala’s 6, and Delhi’s 12.
Notably, Maharashtra has achieved the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2030 target for neonatal mortality, with its current rate at 11 per 1,000 live births, meeting the target of below 12 deaths per 1,000 live births.
State Initiatives Driving Improvement
Dr. Babita Kamlapurkar, joint director of health, Maharashtra, highlighted that a core committee, chaired by the chief secretary, reviews strategies every three months. Additionally, the women and child development (WCD) department coordinates with various child welfare schemes to enhance health outcomes.
According to the public health department’s data, there were 17,150 deaths in the 0-5 age group in 2022-23 (April 2022 to March 2023). This figure declined to 13,810 in 2023-24 and further dropped to 12,438 in 2024-25 (April 2024 to February 2025).
To address under-five mortality, the state implemented multiple initiatives, including monthly reviews by a core panel led by the chief secretary. At the district level, a child mortality investigation panel examines causes of child deaths monthly. “We conduct detailed investigations for each death and implement necessary measures,” said a public health department official.
Special committees have been established in tribal districts in collaboration with the tribal development department and WCD to combat child mortality. Additionally, the public health department has set up child mortality investigation committees in each district and 55 special newborn care units (SNCUs) across all districts. These units treat approximately 60,000 to 70,000 sick and low-birth-weight newborns annually, with the Kangaroo Mother Care method significantly contributing to the successful discharge of healthy newborns.
Government Schemes and Health Interventions
Under the Janani Shishu Suraksha Programme, free medical treatment, nutrition, and referral services are provided to infants. According to Dr. Kailas Baviskar, deputy director of health:
- Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) conduct home visits for newborns, covering approximately one million infants annually.
- Around 90,000 sick children receive treatment and referrals each year.
- The state operates 79 Nutrition Rehabilitation Centres (NRCs) at district and taluka levels to treat malnourished children.
These centres play a vital role in ensuring children receive necessary nutritional support, further contributing to improved child health outcomes in Maharashtra.
Mortality Figures in Mumbai and MMR
Despite overall improvements, some regions continue to face challenges. As per the health department’s data, Mumbai reported 3,987 infant deaths and 568 maternal deaths. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) recorded 8,443 newborn deaths and 936 maternal deaths, highlighting the severity of the situation in urban areas. High mortality figures in the key districts includes:
- Nagpur: Reported 427 maternal deaths, ranking second in the state.
- Pune: Documented 378 maternal deaths.
- Nashik: Saw 2,974 infant deaths.
- Palghar: Reported 1,133 infant deaths.
Rural-Urban Mortality Gap
The SRS 2020 chart highlights the disparity in child mortality between rural and urban areas, with under-five mortality rates at 24 per 1,000 live births in rural areas, compared to 11 in urban areas. This led to the establishment of a coordination committee in tribal districts alongside the children and welfare department.
