Spatial Pattern of Births and Deaths Using HMIS Data in Ahilyanagar District, India: Tahsil-wise Geographical Analysis

Abstract

Background: The Health Management Information System (HMIS) provides reliable micro-level data on births, deaths and maternal and child health services. HMIS is a facility-based report majorly collecting data from public facilities across the country with meagre reporting from private facilities. Aims: The present study aims to analyse the tahsil-wise spatial pattern of live births, total deaths, child mortality (0–5 years), and infant mortality (0–1 year) under the Health Management Information System (HMIS) in the former Ahilyanagar District. The study seeks to identify inter-tahsil disparities and health-vulnerable regions to support micro-level health planning. Study Design: The study adopts a descriptive and analytical research design based on secondary data, integrating demographic and geographical perspectives to assess spatial variations in health indicators. Place and Duration of Study: The study covers 14 tahsils of the former Ahilyanagar District, Maharashtra, for the reference year 2025. The district represents a heterogeneous region comprising urban centres, rural hinterlands, drought-prone areas, and industrial zones. Methodology: Secondary data were collected from HMIS records obtained from the District Health Officer, Zilla Parishad, and the Socio-Economic Abstract of Ahilyanagar District (2025). Key variables analysed include male and female live births, total live births, total deaths, child deaths (0–5 years), and infant deaths (0–1 year). The data were analysed using tahsil-wise tabulation, percentage analysis, ratio interpretation, and comparative spatial analysis to examine inter-regional disparities. Results: The district recorded 63,985 live births and 13,957 total deaths, revealing pronounced spatial variation. Nagar, Sangamner, Rahata, and Newasa emerged as high-birth and high-mortality tahsils due to large populations and urban influence. Elevated child and infant mortality in Sangamner, Newasa, Parner, and Nagar indicates persistent gaps in maternal and child healthcare services. In contrast, Karjat and Jamkhed reported low mortality levels, reflecting smaller populations and rural settlement patterns, though possible under-reporting cannot be ruled out. Conclusion: The study highlights significant tahsil-wise health inequalities within Ahilyanagar District. High-risk tahsils require targeted interventions, including strengthened primary healthcare, improved neonatal and maternal services, and enhanced nutrition programmes. The findings underscore the importance of micro-level spatial health planning to reduce preventable mortality and promote equitable health development.