Madhya Pradesh Tops In Maternal Deaths; MMR Number Exceeds Of Several Other High-Burden States

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Madhya Pradesh has recorded the highest Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) in the country, highlighting critical gaps in the state’s healthcare system.

According to the latest Sample Registration System (SRS) report released in June 2025, India’s overall MMR stands at 88, while Madhya Pradesh’s figure is a concerning 159.

The MMR represents the number of maternal deaths per 1,00,000 live births, while the Maternal Mortality Rate measures maternal deaths among women aged 15–49 per one lakh women in that age group.

Healthcare expert Amulya Nidhi, National Co-convenor of Jan Swasthya Abhiyan India, said, “Over 50 percent of the total health budget is allocated to curb maternal and infant deaths, yet the figures remain high. It clearly indicates that Madhya Pradesh’s health system is in poor shape. Even the referral system is failing in many areas.”

The state’s MMR not only surpasses the national average but also exceeds that of several other high-burden states, including Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.

As per SRS report, MMR and Maternal Mortality Rates are as follow

Madhya Pradesh

MMR: 159

Maternal Mortality Rates: 14

Chhattisgarh

MMR: 141

Maternal Mortality Rates: 10

Uttar Pradesh

MMR: 141

Maternal Mortality Rates: 12

Odisha

MMR: 136

Maternal Mortality Rates: 8

West Bengal

MMR: 105

Maternal Mortality Rates: 5

Uttarakhand

MMR: 104

Maternal Mortality Rates: 6