Bhubaneswar, May 19 (IANS): The Odisha government has decided to spend Rs.50 crore annually to reduce Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) and Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) in inaccessible areas of the state.

The 8th meeting here of the State Health Mission, presided over by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, decided to implement the special programme in 15 backward districts aiming to reduce MMR and IMR by 2020.

The government would also make arrangements for referral hospitals for babies and create ICUs in medical colleges for them, said a release from the chief minister's office (CMO).

A special initiative for reduction of IMR and MMR in difficult areas will be rolled out with an estimated budget of Rs.50 crore annually. Also the government will ensure availability of minimum assured diagnostic services in all public health facilities in a phased manner.

The state government is moving towards holistic and comprehensive health care for needy people by effective implementation of Niramaya along with Biju Krushak Kalyan Yojana (BKKY) and Chief Minister's Relief Fund (CMRF).

Health Minister Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak said several programmes and schemes related to the health sector were discussed in the meeting to provide better health service to the people.