Decadal trends of maternal mortality and utilization of maternal health care services in India: Evidence from nationally representative data

The consistent decline in India's MMR is because of improvements in socioeconomic conditions, healthcare infrastructure, and public health initiatives such as Janani Suraksha Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan. Enhanced transport networks, mobile communication, and rural infrastructure have improved access to maternal care, while grassroots workers such as Accredited Social Health Activists have strengthened antenatal and postnatal service delivery. However, direct obstetric causes like hemorrhage, infection, and sepsis still significantly contribute to maternal deaths. Achieving the SDG target of 70 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030 requires addressing regional disparities, strengthening health systems, and overcoming resource constraints. Closing gaps in maternal healthcare utilization and fostering collaboration among stakeholders is critical for implementing sustainable and equitable health reforms.