The Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) in Odisha is 222 per 1 lakh deliveries, while the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) stands at 51 per 10,000 children born in the state. Statistics reveal that both these ratios are more than the national average. The Odisha government has decided to spend Rs.50 crore annually to reduce MMR and IMR in inaccessible areas of the state. Also, the state government will ensure availability of minimum assured diagnostic services in all public health facilities in a phased manner.
During the 8th meeting of the State Health Mission, presided over by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, it was decided to implement the special program in 15 backward districts aiming to reduce MMR and IMR by 2020. A release from the chief minister's office (CMO) said, "The government would also make arrangements for referral hospitals for babies and create ICUs in medical colleges for them."
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The Odisha government is moving towards holistic and comprehensive health care for needy people by effective implementation of Niramaya along with Biju Krushak Kalyan Yojana (BKKY) and Chief Minister's Relief Fund (CMRF). Health Minister Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak said, "Several programs and schemes related to the health sector were discussed in the meeting to provide better health service to the people."
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