Our mothers are the only reason we could see the light of the day and grow up as strong individuals. It is their countless sacrifice, dedication; hard work and blessing that help us arrive in life. Motherhood is one of the most special and important stages in a woman’s life and she requires utmost care and affection during this period. Thus, to raise awareness about motherhood and its importance, National Safe Motherhood Day is observed in India on April 11.
The whole duration of pregnancy and delivery is a very crucial one and requires paramount care. Due to the efforts of our government, I can say with immense pride and achievement that Madhya Pradesh has seen a sharp drop in Maternal Mortality Rate over the years. One of the biggest reasons is an increase in the number of Institutional Deliveries. Institutional Births have increased from 26.2 in 2005-06 to 74.4 in 2015-16.
Efforts of Asha ANM Anganwadi workers, Health Care facilities in villages, anti-natal check-ups have remarkably brought down the rate of home delivery in rural areas. Facilities like Janani Express Ambulance have made reaching the hospital hassle-free and quick. Similarly, schemes like Janani Suraksha Yojana, Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan, Mamta Abhiyan, etc have been started to provide all necessary care and health facilities to pregnant women.
The government is working round the clock to improve health and hygiene of mothers. However, motherhood requires more than just medical and health benefits. Hence, it is equally important to pay attention to her mental health and cater to all her requirements.
On this National Safe Motherhood Day, I humbly request all to treat motherhood as a priority and give special care and attention to the pregnant and lactating women. We cannot dream of a beautiful future in the absence of healthy mothers.