GUWAHATI: Assam’s Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) has declined to 84, dropping below the national average of 88 for the first time, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Tuesday, May 26, describing the development as a “historic achievement” for the State.
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Maternal Mortality Rate refers to the number of women who die due to pregnancy-related complications per 100,000 live births.
Sarma said Assam’s MMR stood at 480 when he took charge of the Health Department in 2006, adding that the progress achieved since then was the result of sustained efforts by healthcare workers across the State.
“At that time, this journey looked almost impossible. But thousands of doctors, nurses, ASHA workers, health officials and frontline workers across Assam kept working silently, tirelessly and with compassion year after year,” he said in a statement.
The Chief Minister said the achievement belonged to healthcare professionals and frontline workers who had worked over the years to improve maternal healthcare services in the State.
“Behind this number are countless mothers who returned safely home to their families. Behind this success are years of sacrifice, sleepless nights and an unwavering commitment to save lives,” he said.
Sarma further said Assam had achieved “something truly historic” through collective effort and the support of the people of the State.
“I bow with gratitude to every health worker who made this possible,” he added.