Janani Surakshya Yojana and its impact on Newborn Care among Bhil Tribe of Madhya Pradesh, India

Tribal population is one of the most socially and economically deprived section of Indian communities. Maternal and child health studies among tribal population have been remained largely neglected. The broad objective of the study was to understand the impact of Janani Surakshya Yojana (JSY). The JSY programme – a monetary incentive for promoting institutional deliveries was initiated in year 2005 by Government of India.
The target population for this study was a recently delivered woman (RDW) aged 15-49 years and who delivered a live birth during last two years. A sample of 1046 RDWs was interviewed from 60 villages selected through PPS sampling in Dhar district during Jan. 2008 – Dec. 2009.
The study revealed that the proportion of institutional deliveries has improved among tribal communities because of monetary incentives provided through Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY). However, still most of the women don’t receive any post-partum follow-up or check-ups. Similarly, medically acceptable newborn practices, such as early drying and wrapping of child, early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding are not in practice among Bhils. The study shows an urgent need of IEC intervention among the Bhil tribe related to maternal and child health care practices.