Child mortality is a critical indicator of a region's healthcare system and overall well-being. In Maharashtra's Nandurbar district, recent data has revealed alarming child mortality rates, posing a severe challenge to healthcare professionals and authorities. This article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the child mortality situation in Nandurbar, highlighting the underlying causes, challenges, and potential solutions. By diving into the factors contributing to child mortality and examining ongoing initiatives, we aim to shed light on the urgent need for targeted interventions and collaborative efforts to address this pressing concern.

Child mortality is a fundamental measure of a region's healthcare quality and socio-economic development. High child mortality rates reflect a range of complex issues, including inadequate access to healthcare, maternal health challenges, and socio-economic disparities. Maharashtra's Nandurbar district, while rich in cultural diversity and natural beauty, faces a daunting challenge - an alarming rise in child mortality rates.


 Child Mortality in Nandurbar: A Stark Reality

Child mortality in Nandurbar has reached distressing levels. Recent data reveals that a total of 179 children lost their lives in just three months, with 75 deaths recorded in July, 86 in August, and 18 in September. These numbers are deeply concerning and warrant immediate attention.

The Chief Medical Officer of Nandurbar, Dr M Sawan Kumar, has provided insights into the primary causes of these tragic deaths, which include:

1. Low Birth Weight: Many newborns in Nandurbar are born with low birth weights, making them more vulnerable to health complications and mortality.

2. Birth Asphyxia: Birth asphyxia, a condition where a newborn doesn't receive enough oxygen during birth, is a significant contributor to child mortality.

3. Sepsis: Infections like sepsis pose a severe threat to newborns and young children, often leading to fatal outcomes.

4. Respiratory Diseases: Respiratory illnesses, caused by factors like air pollution and poor living conditions, contribute significantly to child mortality.

An alarming statistic emerges from this data - a staggering 71 per cent of these deaths occur within the first 28 days of a child's life. Furthermore, 60 per cent of these losses are concentrated in just two of Nandurbar's talukas, highlighting the geographic disparities in healthcare accessibility.

Understanding the Core Issues: To address the rising child mortality rates in Nandurbar, it is crucial to understand the underlying issues contributing to this crisis. Dr Kumar points out several key challenges:

1. Connectivity and Infrastructure: Many of Nandurbar's villages lack consistent, year-round connectivity. Coupled with poor road conditions, this makes it challenging for ambulances to reach those in need.

2. Information Delays: Due to network connectivity issues, patient information often arrives late at healthcare facilities. This delay impacts the timely arrival of patients at hospitals, crucial for their chances of survival.

3. Sickle Cell Disease: A significant number of women in the region suffer from sickle cell disease, increasing the risk of complications during childbirth. This places both mothers and newborns at a higher risk.

 Initiatives to Combat Child Mortality

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Nandurbar's Chief Medical Officer has initiated "Mission Lakshya 84 Days." This mission focuses on monitoring antenatal care (ANC) for 42 days and postnatal care (PNC) for an additional 42 days. The mission aims to:

Daily Monitoring: Healthcare professionals will conduct daily visits to expectant and new mothers, ensuring that they receive the necessary care and support.

Reduce Child Mortality: The primary goal of this mission is to significantly reduce child mortality rates within the next two to three months through proactive healthcare interventions.


Child mortality in Nandurbar is a grave concern that demands immediate attention and collective action.  Initiatives like "Mission Lakshya 84 Days" provide hope for a brighter future. By understanding the root causes, addressing infrastructure challenges, and fostering community engagement, we can work together to ensure the health and well-being of Nandurbar's youngest residents. The journey ahead is challenging, but the resolve to protect our children must be unwavering