The Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI), in partnership with the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO), has completed a successful year of the LDI–REACH programme (Leadership Development Initiative – Removing Barriers to Effective Access and Coverage) in India. This programme trains doctors, nurses, and health workers to better prevent and manage complications in pregnancy, while also building leadership at the local level. It has already reached over 10,000 pregnant women across four centres in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, ensuring that every aspect of their pregnancy was carefully managed.
According to Dr Hrishikesh Pai, “India has made great progress in reducing maternal deaths, but many women still die due to preventable causes such as bleeding after childbirth (post-partum haemorrhage), high blood pressure, and severe anaemia. The LDI–REACH programme focuses on preventing these complications by training doctors, nurses, and frontline workers, and by introducing simple, effective tools such as objective blood loss measurement kits, IV iron for anaemia, and life-saving medicines like heat stable carbetocin and tranexamic acid all recommended in the world scientific community recognized EMOTIVE trial and WHO guidelines.”
Speaking about its success, Dr. Pai said, “This programme is a big step towards our goal of saving every mother’s life. By working closely with local hospitals and health workers, we have shown that simple, low-cost methods can make a huge difference in preventing maternal deaths.”
The programme is part of the global E-MOTIVE trial, which has proven that early recognition and quick management of heavy bleeding after childbirth can save thousands of lives. In India, the LDI–REACH programme has not only introduced these practices but also created leadership among young doctors and nurses, so that good practices continue at the community level, said Dr. Pai.
Ajey Bhardwaj MBA FICOG added, “Over 10,000 women have already benefitted in the project. This shows the power of collective effort. We are confident that with government support, this model can be scaled across the country, especially in high-risk states, so that no woman dies while giving life.”
Unlike many traditional programmes, LDI–REACH builds leadership, encourages women doctors and nurses to take charge, and empowers teams to solve local challenges on their own. Every few months, the participating centres review what is working, what is not, and design small but effective improvements, said Ajey Bhardwaj.
India has already reduced its maternal mortality rate sharply in the last two decades, and with initiatives like LDI–REACH, the country is moving closer to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of reducing maternal deaths to below 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030, said Ajey.
FOGSI and FIGO reaffirm their commitment to supporting the government of India in making maternal care accessible, safe, and equitable for all women, said Ajey Bhardwaj.
