High in the Himalayan valleys of Jammu and Kashmir, far from the reach of paved roads and modern ambulances, a timeless practice continues to bring new life into the world. Here, in the region's most isolated hamlets, traditional midwives remain the indispensable lifeline for expectant mothers, even as hospitals and modern delivery methods reshape childbirth across the wider Valley.
The Unwavering Lifelines of Isolation
These skilled women navigate treacherous, often roadless terrain to reach homes where the nearest health centre is a day's difficult journey away. Their work is not merely a profession but a deeply rooted tradition, passed down through generations. They rely on experience, indigenous knowledge, and a profound understanding of their community's needs. For countless families in these remote pockets, the midwife's arrival is the only form of professional maternal care they can access. Their role encompasses everything from prenatal advice and delivery to postnatal care for both mother and newborn, filling a critical gap in the healthcare infrastructure.
A Valley in Transition: Modernity and Tradition
This enduring reality exists alongside a significant transformation in Kashmir's urban and semi-urban landscapes. Government initiatives and improved infrastructure have led to a steady rise in institutional deliveries at hospitals and primary health centres across the Valley. These facilities offer advanced medical interventions, emergency care, and safer delivery protocols, contributing to improved maternal and infant health statistics. However, this modern system has its geographical and logistical limits. The challenging topography and sheer remoteness of many villages mean that for a significant segment of the population, the choice is not between a midwife and a hospital, but between a midwife and no assistance at all.
The Enduring Need and Cultural Anchor
The persistence of these traditional birth attendants highlights the complex layers of healthcare delivery in mountainous regions. While health authorities encourage institutional deliveries for safety, they also recognize the irreplaceable role midwives play in areas where ambulances cannot go and helicopters are not an option for every birth. Beyond logistics, these women are trusted cultural figures. They provide comfort in a familiar setting, speaking the local language and observing customs that a sterile hospital environment might not accommodate. Their work ensures that childbirth in these remote communities is not a crisis but a supported, natural event.
As reported by Zulfikar Majid and last updated on 21 December 2025, this story underscores a critical dichotomy in Indian healthcare. It is a tale of a region moving forward with modern medicine while simultaneously relying on ancient human resilience. The midwives of Kashmir's roadless villages are more than just healthcare providers; they are custodians of life, continuing their vital service as the world changes around them.
