SRINAGAR: The neonatal mortality rate (NMR) at Government Lal Ded Hospital (LD Hospital) in Srinagar for 2024 stands at 9.9 per 1,000 live births, a figure significantly lower than the national average of 17-21 per 1,000, a GMC Srinagar spokesman said. This milestone underscores the hospital’s role as a leader in neonatal care, supported by advanced treatment methods and state-of-the-art infrastructure.
In 2024, LD Hospital recorded 29,939 live births, alongside 3,107 neonatal admissions, of which 297 neonatal deaths occurred. Despite being the primary referral centre for high-risk cases from across the region, the hospital has managed to maintain its NMR well below the national average. The achievement is particularly notable given the hospital’s service to a broad geographic area, including Jammu’s districts and the Union Territory of Ladakh, making it a critical healthcare hub for the region.
The hospital attributes its success to a robust healthcare system, including a well-equipped Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and the continuous availability of skilled medical staff. The NICU is outfitted with high-end equipment such as ventilators, CPAP machines, and warmers, while life-saving medications like surfactants are provided free of cost. Additionally, the hospital ensures uninterrupted oxygen supply through an in-house oxygen plant, a critical resource for neonatal care.
Government Lal Ded Hospital, with its 710-bed capacity, has implemented comprehensive measures to reduce neonatal mortality. The presence of round-the-clock medical teams and access to cutting-edge healthcare technology have been instrumental in achieving this outcome. The hospital’s efforts align with the Millennium Development Goal of reducing neonatal mortality to 12 per 1,000 live births, further underscoring its contribution to improving maternal and child health in the region.
