India’s LaQshya initiative continues to assess and certify labour rooms and maternity operation theatres in public health facilities to improve the quality of care for mothers and newborns. The programme focuses on infrastructure, clinical standards, patient rights and infection control. It is part of wider efforts under the National Health Mission to strengthen maternal health services in public facilities.
Certification Status
As of February 2026, 1,244 labour rooms and 917 maternity operation theatres in public health facilities have been certified under LaQshya. In addition, 151 labour rooms and 107 maternity operation theatres have undergone recertification. The certification process is designed to ensure sustained quality improvement rather than one-time compliance.
Assessment Framework
LaQshya certification involves a rigorous technical assessment with over 200 measurable elements across 70 standards. These standards are grouped into eight areas of concern:
- Service Provision
- Patient Rights
- Inputs
- Support Services
- Clinical Care
- Infection Control
- Quality Management
- Outcome
Facilities must secure at least 70% overall for both labour rooms and maternity operation theatres. They must also score at least 70% in each area of concern, in client satisfaction, and in three core standards of privacy, confidentiality and dignity, and care during delivery.
Infrastructure and Human Resources
Independent assessors verify whether facilities have essential infrastructure such as functional operation theatres, uninterrupted water and electricity supply, critical medical equipment and adequate human resources. Health is a State subject, so staffing, recruitment and deployment remain the responsibility of States and Union Territories. The Union Health Ministry supports improvements through the National Health Mission and Indian Public Health Standards 2022.
Monitoring and Quality Improvement
The programme is monitored through supportive supervisory visits, regional and state review meetings, field visits and Common Review Missions. These mechanisms assess infrastructure, workforce, service delivery and implementation gaps. The aim is to bridge deficiencies quickly and ensure sustained improvement in maternal and newborn care.
Last Modified: April 29, 2026