Madhya Pradesh Lags in Maternal and Child Health: 175 Deaths per 100,000 Births
Author: News Desk
Date: [Insert Date]
Poor Maternal Health Performance
Madhya Pradesh has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in India, with 175 women dying per 100,000 live births due to complications during pregnancy or childbirth.
Infant Mortality Rate Alarming
The state also records 3,500 newborn deaths per 100,000 births. The infant mortality rate is 48 per 1,000 live births, and under-five child mortality is 56.
Shortage of Health Infrastructure
Madhya Pradesh lacks around 2,000 sub-health centers, especially in tribal and rural areas. Nearly 60% of paramedical staff positions and 61% of specialist doctor posts remain vacant in government hospitals.
Condition of Government Hospitals
Only 39% of specialist doctor positions are filled. Among 708 sanctioned obstetrician posts, 390 are vacant. Pediatrician positions are also critically short.
District Example: Betul
Betul district reflects the crisis, with only 2 out of 40 sanctioned doctor positions filled across 9 community health centers. Specialist roles like gynecologists and surgeons are vacant across all centers.
Chief Minister's Questions
CM Dr. Mohan Yadav questioned health officials about the state's national standing in healthcare. Officials admitted maternal and child mortality rates remain the key areas of concern despite improvements in other health schemes.
