Arunachal Pradesh has registered a significant decline in Infant Mortality Rate (IMR). According to the Sample Registration System bulletin released this month, the Infant Mortality Rate of the state has declined from 37 per 1000 live births in 2018 to 29 per 1000 live births in 2019.

The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) which is widely accepted as a crude indicator of the overall health scenario of a country or a region, is defined as the infant deaths (less than one year) per thousand live births in a given time period and for a given region.

Arunachal's achievement within one year is remarkable. The uplifting IMR figure is a result of the strategic approach of the Government of India and the efforts of State Government on Health through various initiatives. The Arunachal Pradesh government has shown great intent in improving IMR and Maternal mortality by ensuring healthcare reaches the grassroots level. Trained healthcare workers, timely referral and intervention, availability of equipment such as Newborn Stabilization Unit (NBSU) NBSU in all health centres etc has been a game-changer for expecting women and neonates. 

The NBSU is a facility within or in close proximity of the maternity ward where sick and low birth weight newborns can be cared for during short periods. The state government began extensive training for doctors and nurses on NBSU sometime in the last 8-9 years. The improved Ante Natal Checkups and post delivery care has all resulted in the improved IMR.

The remarkable improvement in IMR is a reflection of the planned approach which was undertaken nearly a decade back. The health department with its zero tolerance approach towards infant Mortality and Maternal Mortality has been relentless in its mission to save every precious life.

The healthcare workers and the health department must be commended for their incredible work.

---

Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

<< Back to News List