Maternal, Infant Health: J & K Emerges Among Better-Performing Regions

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) Srinagar- Jammu and Kashmir has emerged as one of the better-performing regions in the country on maternal, infant and child health indicators, with official data pointing to significant improvements driven by sustained reforms and targeted healthcare interventions.

The Union Territory's Maternal Mortality Ratio has declined to 47 per 100,000 live births, well below the national average of 88, reflecting major gains in maternal healthcare delivery. Health officials attribute this improvement to strengthened institutional delivery systems, wider availability of Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care services, improved blood banking facilities, and an expanded referral transport network under the National Health Mission.

Progress is equally visible in infant and neonatal health outcomes. The Neonatal Mortality Rate in Jammu and Kashmir stands at 10, while early neonatal mortality has been reduced to 6, both considerably lower than the national averages of 19 and 13 respectively. The Under-5 Mortality Rate in the Union Territory is 15, compared to the national average of 29, while the Infant Mortality Rate has declined to 14, far below the countrywide figure of 25.

Officials say these gains reflect improved antenatal and postnatal care, timely medical interventions at health facilities, and better tracking of high-risk pregnancies, particularly in remote and vulnerable areas.

Immunisation coverage in the Union Territory has also reached a significant milestone, with full immunisation now covering 96.5 percent of eligible children. This places Jammu and Kashmir among the highest-performing regions in the country. Health authorities credit the achievement to intensified routine immunisation drives, door-to-door outreach, and robust monitoring and follow-up mechanisms.

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