Odisha Extends SAMMPurNA Program to Combat Infant and Maternal Mortality

Bhubaneswar: In a continued commitment to maternal and child healthcare, the Government of Odisha has announced the extension of the “Sishu Abang Matru Mrutyura Purna Nirakarana Abhiyan” (SAMMPurNA) initiative from 2023-24 to 2027-28. Launched in 2015, this strategic program focuses on reducing infant mortality rates (IMR) and maternal mortality ratios (MMR) across the state, emphasizing 15 identified districts, including KBK, KBK+, tribal regions, and areas with high malaria prevalence.

Odisha has achieved noteworthy progress in key health indicators over the years, reflecting its dedication to maternal and child well-being. The state has experienced a significant surge of 69.6 points in institutional births, rising from 22.6% in 1998-99 to an impressive 92.2% in 2019-21, surpassing the national average of 88.6%.

Additionally, Odisha has reported a remarkable 59-point reduction in IMR, decreasing from 95 in 2000 to 36 in 2020 (Source: SRS), marking the highest point decline in the country since 2005. The state also boasts the second-highest point decline in Maternal Mortality Ratio, falling by 49 points from 168 in 2015-17 to 119 in 2018-20.

In the domain of immunization coverage, Odisha has secured the top position among all states, achieving a full immunization coverage rate of 90.5% in 2019-21, surpassing the national average of 76.4%.

To build on these achievements and intensify efforts to reduce IMR, MMR, and anemia, the State Government has decided to extend the SAMMPurNA scheme for an additional five years. The comprehensive program comprises two major components:

• Maternal & Child Health Interventions: Aiming to reduce IMR/MMR.
• Nutrition Interventions (AMLAN): Aiming to reduce anemia and, consequently, IMR/MMR.

Key components of the extended scheme include alternative referral transportation services for pregnant women in challenging areas, drop-back facilities for pregnant women and sick infants post-discharge, the establishment of critical care units for pregnant women and children, SAMMPurNA Surkshya Kabacha, T3 Camp at VHSND, schools, and initiatives in difficult pockets to reduce anemia among targeted populations.

The scheme will be implemented across all 30 districts, with a special focus on the 15 identified districts with high IMR/MMR. The Government has allocated a budget of Rs. 1015.67 Crore for the next five years, reaffirming its commitment to the well-being of mothers and infants across the state.