According to the Sample Registration System (SRS) data released in 2020, Maharashtra, a state in India, has made significant progress in reducing neonatal, infant, and under-five mortality rates. The state has achieved the targets set under the United Nations\’ sustainable development goals (SDGs) for child deaths, placing it among the top six to 11 states in the country. Maharashtra\’s neonatal mortality rate (NMR) stands at 11 deaths per 1,000 live births, meeting the SDG target of fewer than 12 deaths. The infant mortality rate (IMR) in Maharashtra is now 16, compared to the national average of 28, and the under-five mortality rate is 18, compared to the national average of 32. The SDG target for under-five mortality was fewer than 25 deaths per 1,000 live births.
However, there is a notable disparity between urban and rural areas within Maharashtra. While urban areas have achieved the SDG targets for neonatal and infant mortality rates, rural areas still have a considerable distance to go. The difference in NMR between urban and rural Maharashtra is nine points, with rural areas having an NMR of 15. Similarly, the IMR is 11 in urban areas and 20 in rural areas. The data does not provide district-wise rates, which makes it challenging to assess the situation accurately.
Experts emphasize the importance of understanding micro trends and gathering data on tribal populations within Maharashtra to obtain a more comprehensive picture. While the mortality rates have decreased, concerns are raised about the persisting issue of malnutrition in certain districts. It is acknowledged that there has been a significant drop in IMR over the past decade, but there is a need to address the shift in causes of death, with congenital problems and prematurity emerging as the leading causes.
Source: Times of India
