Guwahati, 22 May (HS): Assam’s health sector has achieved a major milestone with a significant decline in the maternal mortality rate (MMR), reflecting improvements in healthcare services and maternal care across the state.

According to the latest figures, Assam’s maternal mortality rate has now fallen below the national average. While the national maternal mortality ratio currently stands at 87 per one lakh live births, Assam has reduced the figure to 84.

The achievement marks a notable improvement from the 2021–2023 period, when the state’s maternal mortality rate was recorded at 110. The latest data for 2026 indicates a sharp decline, showcasing sustained efforts by the state government and health department to strengthen maternal healthcare infrastructure and awareness programmes.

Health sector officials have termed the development a major success for Assam, attributing the improvement to better institutional delivery facilities, enhanced medical services in rural areas and continuous monitoring of maternal health indicators.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash