Global Maternal Mortality Estimates (2023)
The study, led by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington, reveals a stark disparity in maternal health outcomes across South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa.
| Country | Maternal Deaths (Total) | Comparison to Live Births |
| Nigeria | 32,900 | Highest global total. |
| India | 24,700 | Second highest global total. |
| Ethiopia | 11,900 | High burden in Sub-Saharan Africa. |
| Pakistan | 10,300 | High burden in South Asia. |
Correction on Ratio: It is important to distinguish between absolute deaths and the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR). While India saw 24,700 deaths in total, its MMR (deaths per 100,000 live births) has actually seen a steady decline. According to the Sample Registration System (SRS) and the latest UN-MMEIG reports (2025), India’s MMR has dropped to approximately 93 per lakh live births, down from 130 in 2014-16.
Key Findings of the IHME Analysis
The researchers noted that while maternal deaths have decreased significantly over the past three decades, the pace of improvement has stagnated in recent years.
- Uneven Progress: Improvements are not uniform; while some regions have seen rapid declines due to better access to emergency obstetric care, others remain trapped by fragile health systems.
- South Asia Context: India and Pakistan continue to account for a large portion of global maternal deaths primarily due to their large population sizes and high birth rates, despite improving ratios.
- Stagnation Drivers: Factors such as climate change, regional conflicts, and the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on routine prenatal services have contributed to the slowing progress.
India’s Progress vs. The Global Burden
Despite the high absolute number of deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare points to India as a “top performer” in reducing the rate of mortality:
- 86% Decline: India has reduced its MMR by 86% over the last 33 years (1990–2023), outpacing the global average reduction of 48%.
- SDG Targets: India is currently on track to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of an MMR below 70 per lakh live births by 2030.
Sources
- The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and Women’s Health: “Global, regional, and national estimates of maternal mortality, 1990–2023” (Published March 2026).
- Press Information Bureau (PIB): “India witnesses a steady downward trend in maternal and child mortality” (April 7, 2025).
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME): “Maternal Mortality Trends and Country Estimates” (Updated 2026).
- UN Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-agency Group (UN-MMEIG): “2000-2023 Report” (Published April 2025).
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