National Safe Motherhood Day promotes better health for mothers in India

National Safe Motherhood Day is observed on April 11 every year in India to raise awareness about the health and safety of mothers during pregnancy and childbirth. This event was officially established by the Indian government in 2003 after advocacy efforts from the White Ribbon Alliance India. The day coincides with the birth anniversary of Kasturba Gandhi, a significant figure in India's history. Over the years, this observance has emphasized the importance of addressing critical maternal health issues that have historically affected thousands of women, highlighting the need for adequate healthcare services. The theme for National Safe Motherhood Day 2025 is 'Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,' chosen each year to focus on issues that directly impact the well-being of mothers and their children. The White Ribbon Alliance India selects these themes to help direct public interest and policy towards essential needs of maternal health, particularly in addressing the high maternal mortality rate that still exists in the country. Spreading awareness about the challenges mothers face during pregnancy and childbirth is key to fostering a healthier future for families across India. The significance of this day lies in its intention to highlight the serious problems mothers encounter, as well as the societal factors that contribute to maternal health risks. The observance calls for improvements in prenatal care and emphasizes the importance of skilled medical personnel during delivery. It also advocates for the importance of postpartum care, encompassing assistance with breastfeeding and family planning, as well as identifying any potential complications following childbirth. In a broader context, the day serves as a crucial reminder for the need to advance healthcare for women in India and combat malnutrition, which remains a widespread issue. By promoting better healthcare systems and raising awareness about women's health, National Safe Motherhood Day collectively aims to empower women to take charge of their health and lives, aiming for a significant reduction in maternal mortality rates in the future in India.