The “1000 Lives for Kashmir” project was launched in 2015 to reduce maternal and newborn mortality in remote areas of Kashmir. The project improves access to basic healthcare services for women, newborns, and families living far from existing health facilities.

Background and challenges
In many remote parts of Kashmir, healthcare infrastructure is limited and overstretched. Women often lack access to skilled prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care, increasing the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Pakistan has one of the highest child mortality rates in the world, making maternal and newborn health a critical priority—especially in geographically isolated and conflict-affected areas.

Traditional birth attendants play an important role in supporting pregnant women, but they often lack formal medical training. This can pose serious risks during childbirth, particularly in emergencies where referral options are limited.

Our approach
Kashmir Fund DK works to reduce pregnancy- and childbirth-related deaths by strengthening local maternal health systems. Our approach focuses on building capacity, training skilled healthcare personnel, and establishing locally accessible maternal health centres in remote communities.

We prioritise long-term, sustainable solutions that ensure women have access to qualified care before, during, and after childbirth.

Activities
• Establishment of maternal and family healthcare centres in remote areas
• Training and deployment of formally educated Community Midwives (CMWs)
• Capacity-building and specialised training in managing complicated births
• Provision of essential medical equipment, medicines, and basic health services
• 24/7 maternal health services in partnership with local authorities

Who we support
The project supports pregnant women, newborns, and families living in remote and underserved areas of Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), particularly in districts along the Line of Control (LOC) where access to healthcare is severely limited.

Results and long-term impact
Since 2015, KFDK has established over 60 health centres across Neelum, Haveli, Bhimber, Jhelum Valley, and Kotli districts. These centres provide safe birth management, first aid, treatment of minor illnesses, health counselling, and essential maternal care.

The project has contributed to improved access to skilled childbirth services, safer deliveries, and reduced maternal and newborn health risks. By strengthening local healthcare capacity, the initiative creates lasting improvements in community health and resilience.

How to support
Support the “1000 Lives for Kashmir” project with a donation or Sadaqah. Your contribution helps provide women and newborns with access to skilled midwives, safe childbirth services, and essential healthcare in some of the most remote areas of Kashmir.