National Safe Motherhood Day 2024, History, Significance and Challenges

National Safe Motherhood Day 2024

Each year on April 11, India commemorates National Safe Motherhood Day, coinciding with the birthday of Kasturba Gandhi, spouse of Mahatma Gandhi. India was the pioneer in proclaiming April 11 as National Safe Motherhood Day, with the primary objective of enhancing healthcare services for women throughout pregnancy and postpartum periods to mitigate maternal mortality resulting from pregnancy and childbirth complications. Additionally, specialized attention is given to nursing mothers.

India presently faces the highest maternal mortality rates worldwide. Reducing maternal deaths necessitates the provision of adequate healthcare services, crucial for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, ensuring a safe and healthy motherhood journey. National Safe Motherhood Day (NSMD) is observed to enhance public awareness regarding healthcare facilities for women. This article serves as a valuable resource for candidates preparing for competitive examinations to understand the history, theme, and significance of National Safe Motherhood Day 2024.

Why is National Safe Motherhood Day Celebrated?

National Safe Motherhood Day is celebrated to draw attention to the challenges faced by women in accessing essential maternal healthcare services and to advocate for policy reforms aimed at improving maternal health outcomes. By highlighting the significance of safe motherhood, the day encourages stakeholders, including governments, healthcare providers, NGOs, and communities, to work together towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goal target of reducing the global maternal mortality ratio.

Theme of National Safe Motherhood Day 2024

Each year, the White Ribbon Alliance members choose a fresh theme and organize activities to raise awareness about maternal healthcare facilities and adequate support for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The theme for National Safe Motherhood Day 2024 is yet to be revealed. This theme is geared towards disseminating awareness and orchestrating extensive campaigns nationwide.

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History of National Safe Motherhood Day 2024

Annually observed on April 11th, National Safe Motherhood Day occupies a notable position in the worldwide initiative for maternal health. Its historical journey mirrors a steadfast commitment to enhancing the well-being of mothers and infants, marked by relentless endeavors and pivotal achievements.

In 1991, the White Ribbon Alliance India (WRAI), comprising a network of non-governmental organizations, passionately pushes for a nationwide initiative to promote awareness and push for improved maternal healthcare. By 2003, the Indian government formally acknowledges April 11th as National Safe Motherhood Day, aligning it with the birth anniversary of Kasturba Gandhi, the wife of Mahatma Gandhi and a prominent advocate for women’s empowerment. This momentous decision signifies a pivotal shift, establishing India as the pioneer in dedicating a specific day to maternal health.

Significance of National Safe Motherhood Day 2024

The significance of National Safe Motherhood Day cannot be overstated, particularly in a country like India, which continues to grapple with high maternal mortality rates. The day serves as a reminder of the pressing need to prioritize maternal health and well-being, ensuring that every woman receives the necessary care and support throughout her journey to motherhood.

Celebrating National Safe Motherhood Day underscores the collective commitment to reducing maternal deaths caused by preventable complications during pregnancy and childbirth. It emphasizes the importance of access to quality healthcare services, including prenatal care, skilled attendance at birth, and postpartum support, to safeguard the lives of both mothers and their newborns.