Meghalaya, which had some of the worst maternal and infant mortality rates (MMR and IMR) in the country, has seen a drastic improvement in recent years.
The MMR figure is now, according to a senior official in the Health Department, under 100 per 1 lakh live births, less than half the 243 per 1 lakh in 2020-21.
In East Khasi Hills, the most populous district, instances of maternal mortality have fallen by nearly 75 per cent in the last year, from 84 to 23.
The number of infant deaths has also fallen from 1,252 in 2022-23 to 932 in 2023-24. However, the department is concerned about three districts – North Garo Hills, South Garo Hills and Ri-Bhoi, where the number of infant deaths has risen over the same period.
In order to further reduce the numbers, the Meghalaya government is to partner with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the government and foundation is expected to be signed soon.
The foundation will provide necessary training to health professionals in Meghalaya on various aspects including the process of healthy delivery.