As per the special bulletin released by the Registrar General of India, the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) has decreased significantly across India. In contrast, the MMR of India has further improved by 6 points, tallying up to 97 per 1 million live births at present.

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare tweeted "Significant Decline in the Maternal Mortality Ratio from 130 in 2014–16 to 97 per lakh live births in 2018–20" while praising the remarkable progress in the country. This decline in the MMR has helped in achieving the National Health Policy (NHP) target for the MMR of less than 100 per lakh live births. Also, this has set us on the right track to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of an MMR of less than 70 per 1,000 live births by 2030.

According to the special bulletin, the country has witnessed a progressive reduction in MMR from 130 in 2014–2016, 122 in 2015–17, 113 in 2016–18, 103 in 2017–19, and 97 in 2018–20. Meanwhile, in terms of SDGs, the number has risen from 6 to 8 points in several states, with Kerala (19) at the top. It is followed by Maharashtra (33), Telangana (43), Andhra Pradesh (45), Tamil Nadu (54), Jharkhand (56), Gujarat (57), and Karnataka (69), respectively.

This target has been achieved with the help of governmental schemes introduced under the banner of the National Health Mission, such as "Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram" and "Janani Suraksha Yojana." Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) has been lauded for its focus on identifying high-risk pregnancies and facilitating their appropriate management. Furthermore, LaQshya and midwifery initiatives that focused on promoting quality care in a respectful and dignified manner, as well as ensuring the choice of birthing for all pregnant women, have proven to be beneficial.