BHUBANESWAR: After successful implementation of Mamata scheme, the State Government is planning to introduce a new programme in which kit for pregnant women and newborns will be provided to reduce the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) and Maternity Mortality Rate (MMR).
The kit worth around `2,000 will be gifted to women post delivery. Women who will give birth in Government hospitals only will be eligible for it for a maximum of two deliveries. It also aims at encouraging institutional delivery in State-run hospitals.
The kit will comprise 20 items including portable baby cradle bed, towel, clothes, milk bottle, mosquito net, hair and body oil, baby soap, shampoo, powder, napkins, diaper, nail clipper, toy and rattle for baby, hand wash liquid, soap, saree and slippers for mother.
A Health official said this will be an affectionate gift to mother and her child. ‘’The proposal is in the final stage of consideration. The kit will be launched soon,’’ he said.
New born babies usually need more care and attention. Many children suffer in the State because they do not get basic materials that they require at early stages of their lives.
‘’The focus will also be on welfare of women and newborns. The idea is to encourage more deliveries in Government hospitals, reduce IMR and female foeticide,’’ the officer said.
Under Mamata scheme, the State Government is providing `5,000 in four instalments for pregnant and nursing mothers upto two deliveries so that they are able to rest adequately during their pregnancy and after delivery. It also helps antenatal and postnatal care and immunisation.
Though the State’s IMR has come down to 40 per 1000 live births, which is below the national average of 41, the authorities have been preparing a slew of strategies which would help improve health indicators.
The Government has also launched a special programme in 161 backward blocks of 15 districts to ensure safe delivery and special care of pregnant women and newborn babies to reduce their mortality rate.
Around 8.6 lakh babies born every year in Odisha.
As newborns upto 28 days are very delicate and have to go through a transitional phase, they require appropriate care. The babies face a lot of problem due to lack of knowledge about newborn care in the family.
At present, of 1,000 live births, 37 neonates are dying every year in the State. Common causes of neonatal deaths are birth asphyxia, prematurity and infection or sepsis. The Government will also concentrate on hygiene in the hospitals to check the deaths.
Stay Ahead, Stay Informed: justbabyshop.com Exclusive