Highest Infant Mortality Rate in MP | 21 Aug 2025
Why in News?
Madhya Pradesh has been reported to have the highest infant mortality rate (IMR) in India, with 40 out of every 1,000 newborns dying in the state, according to statistics revealed by Deputy CM and Health Minister Rajendra Shukla in the state assembly.
Key Points
- According to the latest Sample Registration System (SRS) 2022 data from the Registrar General of India, Madhya Pradesh’s IMR (40) is not only above the national average (26), but also the highest among all states.
- In an effort to combat this issue, the government has allocated Rs 110 crore for various health schemes and initiatives, including programs such as Anaemia Mukt Bharat, nutritional rehabilitation centres, and Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram, among others.
- Causes of Infant Deaths: The primary causes of infant deaths in Madhya Pradesh include premature birth, pneumonia, sepsis, low birth weight, birth asphyxia, and diarrhea.
- The government has listed these factors as key areas of focus in its efforts to reduce IMR.
Zero Maternal and Infant Deaths in MP’s Gram Panchayats
On Independence Day, the Madhya Pradesh National Health Mission (MP-NHM) recognized the outstanding efforts of grassroots healthcare workers and community leaders who achieved remarkable results in maternal and child healthcare.
- Achieving Zero Deaths in Dhakoni: Dhakoni Gram Panchayat, with a population of 8,107, successfully reported zero maternal and infant deaths for two consecutive years.
- Efforts in Garauli Gram Panchayat (Chhatarpur): Similarly, Garauli Gram Panchayat in Naugaon block, Chhatarpur district, with a population of 6,598, also reported zero maternal and infant deaths over two years.
- Institutional Deliveries in Ratlam: In Ratlam district, Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Rawti, Bajna block emerged as a leader in institutional deliveries for 2024-25.