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Karnataka Vows to End Preventable Maternal Deaths, Boosts Healthcare for Pregnant Women
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News18•25-09-2026, 21:30
Karnataka Vows to End Preventable Maternal Deaths, Boosts Healthcare for Pregnant Women
- •Karnataka Minister U T Khader announced the government's commitment to eliminating preventable maternal deaths and improving healthcare for pregnant women across the state.
- •Measures include establishing a dedicated state-level unit for preventing maternal deaths, strengthening high-risk pregnancy tracking, and setting up birth waiting homes.
- •The state aims to reduce its Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) from 73 to below 70 per one lakh live births, with a long-term goal of zero preventable maternal deaths.
- •Community participation will be prioritized through gram panchayat-level awareness campaigns, with recognition for those achieving "Zero Maternal Deaths."
- •Karnataka plans to establish a dedicated Women's Health Policy and appoint a Deputy Director to address women's changing healthcare needs, becoming the first state to do so.
Key Questions Answered
According to the latest Sample Registration System estimate for 2022-24, Karnataka's Maternal Mortality Ratio stands at 73 per one lakh live births.
Karnataka is establishing a dedicated state-level unit for preventing maternal deaths, launching community awareness campaigns, strengthening high-risk pregnancy tracking, and setting up birth waiting homes at district and taluka levels and primary health centres.
Karnataka plans to introduce a special health policy for women named 'Ruthutaare', which will primarily focus on menopause-related issues and lifestyle management.