Udalguri achieves sharp decline in child mortality over three years

A CORRESPONDENT

TANGLA: In a remarkable stride towards public health improvement, the Udalguri District Health Society reported a significant decline in child mortality rates over the past three years. The official statistics reveal that the number of child deaths dropped from 256 in 2022–23 to 130 in 2023–24, and further to 82 in 2024–25.

The sharp decline in Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) follows a series of focused interventions initiated in April 2024, backed by the unwavering support of the district administration and the relentless efforts of health workers across the district.

Talking to The Sentinel, In-Charge Joint Director of Health Services, Udalguri Dr N Binoy Singh stated that despite earlier challenges where mortality rates remained higher than expected, the district adopted a multipronged strategy to reverse the trend and the key interventions included mobilization and timely registration of pregnant women within the first trimester, ensuring at least four antenatal checkups (ANC) through ASHA and ANM workers, and close monitoring of high-risk pregnancies to ensure safe hospital deliveries. Home-based newborn and child care visits by health workers played a critical role in ensuring postnatal care, identifying health risks early, and guiding caregivers on childcare and nutrition.

The district also expanded vaccination drives to cover every child, promoting complementary feeding, and spreading awareness on exclusive breastfeeding. Anemia case detection, treatment, and follow-up through regular screenings were prioritized, reducing health risks significantly. Education campaigns on healthy diets and nutrition empowered families to make informed food choices.

Moreover, cases of Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) were promptly referred to Nutrition Rehabilitation Centres (NRCs) for treatment. Regular review and analysis of health indicators at the district, block, and sector levels under the guidance of the district administration also helped track progress and drive timely course correction.

“Our health workers are vigilant and proactive, focusing on early detection and timely referrals to ensure sick children receive prompt treatment at well-equipped healthcare facilities. Through their tireless efforts and dedication, we have made significant strides in saving young lives. In the 2024–25 financial year, our hard work paid off, resulting in a notable decline in child mortality rates in Udalguri district compared to previous years,” Dr N Binoy Singh added, reaffirming the commitment to achieving zero child deaths in the future.

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