New data from the Sample Registration System (SRS) reveals a marginal rise in Telangana’s Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR), from 43 to 45 per 100,000 live births between the periods 2018–20 and 2019–21. While the increase is slight, Telangana still ranks among the best-performing states in India, maintaining a strong maternal healthcare system. The state’s MMR is lower than the national average of 93 and also fares better than neighboring Andhra Pradesh, which recorded an MMR of 46 during the same period.

In southern India, the average MMR decreased from 49 to 47, with Telangana standing just behind Kerala (20) and Maharashtra (38) but ahead of Tamil Nadu (49), Jharkhand (51), Gujarat (53), and Karnataka (63). This places Telangana as one of the leaders in maternal healthcare in the region. Health officials attribute this performance to robust maternal health programs and proactive government policies. Telangana, along with other southern states, has already achieved the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of bringing MMR below 70 by 2030.

Despite these achievements, the slight increase in Telangana’s MMR signals the need for continued vigilance. Experts stress that even small rises warrant attention to ensure maternal health outcomes remain on track. Meanwhile, states like Madhya Pradesh (175), Assam (162), and Uttar Pradesh (151) still report dangerously high maternal mortality rates, highlighting stark disparities in maternal care across the country. Telangana’s performance, though not without challenges, stands as a model for improving maternal health nationwide.