Rayagada, July 9: In a landmark initiative aimed at reducing maternal and infant mortality rates, the Odisha government has announced the launch of AI-powered healthcare services for pregnant women in Rayagada district. This marks the first time artificial intelligence (AI) will be used for maternal health monitoring in the state.

The service, beginning in Rayagada--a remote tribal district--will utilize "Digital Diagnosis Devices for Pregnancy Monitoring" that track health indicators of expectant mothers from conception to childbirth. The advanced kits will allow frontline health workers to detect complications early and intervene promptly, helping prevent fatal outcomes.

Dr. Prafulla Chandra Padhi, head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department at the District Headquarters Hospital in Rayagada, emphasized that AI-powered monitoring will now reach underserved communities. Local ASHA worker Kuni Dora echoed the sentiment, calling the initiative a blessing for rural mothers.

The State has approved procurement of 200 AI-based diagnostic kits and smartphones for ASHA workers, accompanied by specialized training. These tools will enable health officials at every level--from grassroots workers to district officers--to track physical and cognitive fetal development efficiently.

The move follows years of concern over Rayagada’s high maternal and infant mortality rates, which exceeded national averages. Officials now hope the tech-supported approach will reverse this troubling trend, transforming Odisha into a model for maternal care on a national level.

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