Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s Health and Family Welfare Minister, Mukesh Mahaling, informed the Legislative Assembly that the state’s infant mortality rate (IMR) stands at 30, higher than the national average of 25.
However, Mahaling highlighted that Odisha has seen a 21-unit decline in IMR over the past decade, compared to a 15-unit decline at the national level.
Replying to a query raised by MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati, the Health Minister outlined several initiatives taken by the government to reduce IMR. Regular health check-ups are being conducted for pregnant women to ensure their health and well-being. First Referral Units (FRUs) have been set up for emergency care, providing critical services to those in need.
The Maa Gruha scheme supports pregnant women in rural areas, while Special Newborn Care Units (SNCUs) cater to sick infants. Lactation Management Units (LMUs) provide assistance to mothers, promoting breastfeeding and proper infant care.
Additionally, the Home-Based Newborn Care (HBNC) program and Village Health, Sanitation, and Nutrition Days (VHSNDs) are being implemented for community outreach, focusing on newborn care and maternal health.
Mahaling also mentioned that 10 MLCUs and 15 NBSUs have been set up, and 10,888 low-birth-weight babies have received treatment at these facilities.
According to the Health Minister, 28 Lactation Management Units (LMUs) have been established for sick infants and to make breastfeeding easier for mothers.
Additionally, under the Home-Based Newborn Care (HBNC) program, ASHAs visit homes with newborns 6-7 times within 42 days of birth.
