Why Maternal Health in Rural Northeast India Needs an Intervention

Arpon Bhattacharjee

Hanufa Begum, a brave young mother from Naharbari village in Assam's Udalguri district under Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), embodies the challenges faced by countless expecting mothers in the region. Her journey through twin pregnancy was fraught with uncertainties and high risks, navigating treacherous roads and potential pregnancy complications to reach the nearest hospital. Despite the odds and harsh roadblocks, Hanufa persevered, but many others like her are not as fortunate. This is the harsh reality of maternal health in rural Assam—a reality that demands urgent intervention.

Behind the veil of national statistics lies a stark truth: maternal mortality rates may be declining, but the battle is far from over, especially in rural pockets of the nation. With its unique geographical and cultural landscape, Northeast India presents a complex tapestry of challenges, be it infrastructural to socio-economic. Limited access to quality healthcare, inadequate infrastructure, and deep-rooted taboos towards modern medicine and socio-economic factors exacerbate the plight of expecting mothers. We must delve deeper into these issues to understand the gravity of the situation.

The UN Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group report paints a promising picture of progress. However, it is crucial to contextualize these numbers within the broader spectrum of maternal healthcare in India. While strides have been made, disparities persist, with rural areas bearing the brunt of inadequate resources and healthcare facilities. Rural Assam is often overlooked in national discourse, and stands at the intersection of development and neglect, underscoring the urgent need for targeted interventions.

Our efforts in the region, through the BTR Development Fellowship Programme, have been to transform maternal healthcare and access to quality healthcare in Northeast India. Through collaborative partnerships with Governments and other development partners, along with innovative strategies, we are trying to bridge the gap between rural communities and essential healthcare services. An innovative initiative for maternal health in BTR, Aai Onsai Bithangki, is one such example where the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) would assist high-risk pregnant women of BTR financially throughout their journey. Such initiatives will have significantly improved access to prenatal care and postnatal support. By leveraging data-driven insights and community engagement, more such initiatives need to pave the way for sustainable change in the region.

As we celebrate Mother's Day, let us not forget those who are fighting a silent battle for survival. It is incumbent upon us to prioritize maternal health in rural Northeast India and beyond. Investing in robust healthcare infrastructure, enhancing accessibility, and promoting awareness are paramount. Initiatives such as the BTR’s maternal health programs serve as beacons of hope, but more concerted efforts are required.

Hanufa's story is not just about one woman -- it shines a light on the incredible resilience and potential for improvement in maternal healthcare in rural Northeast India. As we reflect on the progress made and the road ahead, let us pledge to stand in solidarity with mothers like Hanufa, ensuring that no woman is left behind. This Mother's Day, let our actions speak louder than words, as we strive towards a future where every mother receives the care and support, she deserves.

Arpon Bhattacharjee is Project Officer at Transform Rural India and anchors the BTR Development Fellowship Programme implementation in the region.