Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has launched the Maatrutva Suraksha Abhiyaan to promote maternal safety. The campaign includes free health check-ups for pregnant women at state-run facilities on the 9th and 24th of each month
Published Jan 21, 2025 | 8:00 AM ⚊ Updated Jan 21, 2025 | 5:45 PM
Health Minsiter Dinesh Gundu Rao speaking to women, recovering after they developed complications post C-section deliveries.
In the wake of the recent maternal deaths in Ballari, the Karnataka government has taken proactive measures to strengthen maternal healthcare across the state.
The Health Department, under the leadership of Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, has announced a large-scale initiative to promote maternal safety and well-being through the Maatrutva Suraksha Abhiyaan.
As part of this campaign, free health check-ups for pregnant women will be conducted on the 9th and 24th of every month at state-run health facilities.
A major health camp specifically for pregnant women is scheduled for 22 January at the Mother and Child Hospital in Raichur.
Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao will inaugurate the event and formally launch the campaign.
The initiative emphasises providing quality healthcare services to pregnant women, particularly those at high risk. The government’s approach includes systematic measures to address gaps in maternal health services.
Free health check-ups: Regular screenings for pregnant women, including of blood pressure, regular monitoring of weight gain and essential blood tests are planned to identify any complications early.
Nutritional support and education: Awareness campaigns about balanced diet, folic acid supplementation, and the importance of rest during pregnancy are part of this initiative.
Special care for High-Risk Pregnancies (HRP): Dedicated follow-ups and care for HRP cases, with additional consultations beyond the standard ANC (Antenatal Care) schedule are planned.
Comprehensive Testing: Mandatory oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) for gestational diabetes and routine administration of folic acid and calcium supplements are part of the programme.
Immunisation and Infection control: Two doses of tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccines for all pregnant women and proactive measures to address potential health risks are planned.
Emergency preparedness: Awareness drives will be conducted for families, so they can recognise danger signs during pregnancy and get guidance on accessing emergency care.
Improved access to specialist care: On the designated Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) and e-PMSMA (electronic PMSMA) days, gynecologists and obstetricians will provide care, particularly for high-risk pregnancies.
A digital extension of the PMSMA is designed to enhance tracking and management of maternal health services. This platform digitises data collection, reporting, and analysis of antenatal care provided under the PMSMA initiative. This provides better communication between healthcare providers and beneficiaries.
Free delivery of services: All government hospitals and medical colleges offer free delivery of services for both Above Poverty Line (APL) and Below Poverty Line (BPL) families, including laboratory tests and postnatal care.
Hospital amenities: Provision of meals during hospital stays (three days for normal delivery and seven days for cesarean cases) and transportation facilities for delivery and postnatal visits.
In light of recent tragic incidents in Ballari, the government’s efforts to prioritise maternal safety demonstrate a significant shift toward preventative care and systematic improvements.
Doctors agree that the health department’s focus on early intervention through quality antenatal services and high-risk pregnancy management is commendable. Regular village-level awareness programmes during VHND (Village Health and Nutrition Days) further ensure that no woman is left behind.
Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao’s directive to conduct these camps at a large scale reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding maternal health and reducing maternal mortality rates.
The minister said that the upcoming Raichur camp on January 22 is set to serve as a model for similar initiatives across the state.
A senior doctor from H D Kote said, “Addressing the systemic issues that have led to maternal deaths, Karnataka is taking a bold step toward ensuring that every mother receives the care and dignity she deserves. These initiatives underscore the importance of sustained efforts in maternal health and serve as a reminder of the critical need to invest in healthcare infrastructure.”
(Edited by Rosamma Thomas)
