Punjab maternal care has undergone a major transformation as nearly 20,000 pregnant women now visit Aam Aadmi Clinics every month for free and accessible services. The initiative marks a decisive shift in how pregnancy care reaches women across the state.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has decentralized maternal healthcare. As a result, Aam Aadmi Clinics now serve as the first and most reliable point of care for expecting mothers. This change ensures timely check-ups close to home.
Moreover, the government launched a protocol-driven pregnancy care model four months ago. Since then, women have received comprehensive ante-natal services at no cost. Over 10,000 free ultrasounds have already been conducted through 500 empanelled private diagnostic centres. Consequently, families saved nearly ₹1 crore in medical expenses.
Meanwhile, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh said the initiative fills long-standing gaps. Earlier, less than 70 percent of pregnant women received their first ante-natal check-up. Even fewer completed the recommended four visits. Therefore, Punjab’s maternal mortality ratio stood at 90 per one lakh live births, higher than the national average.
However, the new system changes this trend. Aam Aadmi Clinics now offer blood tests, sugar and thyroid screening, HIV and syphilis testing, cholesterol and haemoglobin checks, and fetal heart rate monitoring. Additionally, doctors refer women for free ultrasounds when needed.
Importantly, clinics identify around 5,000 high-risk pregnancies every month. Medical teams then monitor these cases closely and ensure timely referrals to higher centres. As a result, complications are detected early and managed effectively.
Dr. Balbir Singh said Punjab is building a strong and people-centric healthcare system. He added that quality maternal care should not depend on income or location. Therefore, the government strengthened primary care at the community level.
Currently, 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics operate across Punjab. Together, they treat nearly 70,000 patients daily. This maternal care program integrates technology, clinical protocols, and referral networks.
Finally, the government described the initiative as one of Punjab’s biggest investments in maternal and child health. Officials believe it will significantly improve outcomes for mothers and newborns across the state.
