Why this matters now
MCH indicators (MMR, IMR, U5MR) and the schemes behind India’s progress are tested in GS-2 and link to the SDGs, nutrition and women’s empowerment.
Key indicators
Key measures: Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) — maternal deaths per 100,000 live births; Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) and Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR) — deaths per 1,000 live births; plus Total Fertility Rate (TFR) and immunisation coverage. India has made major progress on all (MMR/IMR falling steadily).
Determinants
MCH outcomes depend on antenatal/postnatal care, institutional delivery, skilled birth attendance, immunisation, nutrition, sanitation and clean water, female education and age at marriage, and access to healthcare — making it a multi-sectoral challenge.
Schemes and challenges
Key programmes: Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) and JSSK (institutional delivery), Mission Indradhanush (immunisation), POSHAN Abhiyaan (nutrition), ICDS/Anganwadi, and PM Matru Vandana Yojana. Challenges: anaemia and malnutrition, regional disparities, quality of care, and adolescent health.
UPSC angle
Know the indicators (MMR per 100k; IMR/U5MR per 1k; TFR), the determinants, and schemes (JSY/JSSK, Mission Indradhanush, POSHAN, PMMVY). India’s MMR/IMR have fallen steadily.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Maternal Mortality Ratio?
The number of maternal deaths per 100,000 live births — a key indicator of maternal health.
What is the difference between IMR and U5MR?
IMR is infant deaths (under 1 year) and U5MR is deaths under 5 years, both per 1,000 live births.
What is Janani Suraksha Yojana?
A scheme promoting institutional delivery through cash incentives to reduce maternal and newborn mortality.
What is Mission Indradhanush?
A flagship programme to achieve full immunisation coverage of children and pregnant women.