Context: A new UN report titled ‘Trends in Maternal Mortality 2000–2023’ ranks India second globally in maternal deaths, reporting 19,000 fatalities in 2023 — 52 maternal deaths per day, only behind Nigeria.
Key Findings of the UN Report – ‘Trends in Maternal Mortality 2000–2023’:
- India, with 19,000 maternal deaths, shares the second spot with the Democratic Republic of Congo, contributing 7.2% of global deaths.
- Nigeria (75,000 deaths) alone accounted for 28.7% of global maternal mortality.
- India’s Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) fell from 362 (2000) to 80 (2023) – a 78% decline.
- Global maternal deaths fell by 40% between 2000–2023, but progress has slowed since 2016.
- An estimated 260,000 women died globally in 2023 due to complications from pregnancy or childbirth.
Reasons Behind High Maternal Mortality in India:
- Post-partum haemorrhage is the leading cause, followed by hypertensive disorders and pregnancy-related infections.
- Poor emergency obstetric care, especially at Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs).
- Lack of infrastructure, trained personnel, and referral services in rural and underserved areas.
- Non-communicable diseases (diabetes, hypertension, anaemia) also worsen maternal health outcomes.
- In northern India, socio-economic backwardness and low access to private healthcare increase maternal risk.
Relevance in UPSC Exam:
- GS Paper II – Governance and Health:
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- Role of public health systems, maternal care initiatives, and UN multilateral reports.
- GS Paper III – Inclusive Growth & Human Development:
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- Healthcare inequalities, especially in maternal services between states.
- Essay/Ethics:
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- Women’s dignity and healthcare equity as moral imperatives in public policy.
