Overview
Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) was launched in 2016 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to provide fixed-day, free and quality antenatal care (ANC) to all pregnant women in their second and third trimesters. Under the programme, comprehensive antenatal check-ups — including examinations and screening for high-risk pregnancies — are provided on the 9th of every month at government health facilities. The initiative encourages private-sector doctors to volunteer their services and aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality by ensuring early detection and management of pregnancy-related complications.
Key Features & Objectives
- Free, assured and comprehensive antenatal care on the 9th of every month.
- Targets pregnant women in their second and third trimesters.
- Identification and follow-up of high-risk pregnancies.
- Encourages voluntary participation of private medical practitioners.
- Aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality through early detection of complications.
Key Facts at a Glance
★ Exam Focus: Remember PMSMA (2016) provides free antenatal care on the 9th of every month, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.