The study, based on eight years of ambulance registry data from Tamil Nadu’s 108 emergency response system, found that the state recorded faster ambulance response times, better emergency transfers, reduced maternal mortality and major improvements in newborn health during the post-pandemic period.

Covering data from 2017 to 2024, the research offers one of the most detailed views of maternal emergency care in India. It shows how sustained public investment in emergency medical services, maternal care and healthcare staffing can help a system become more resilient even after a major crisis.

A Large-Scale Study Based on Real Ambulance Data

The study examined real-world data from Tamil Nadu’s 108 ambulance emergency response system. This makes the research especially important because it is not limited to one hospital, one city or a small sample group. Instead, it covers all 42 districts of Tamil Nadu and a population of more than 84 million people.

This approach helped researchers understand how the system performed during the first wave, the second wave and the recovery period. It also allowed them to compare emergency medical service performance with actual maternal and newborn health outcomes.

What the IIT Madras Study Found

The findings show that pregnancy-related emergency calls increased sharply during the pandemic. This was expected, as movement restrictions, fear of infection and pressure on hospitals affected routine healthcare access.

However, despite these challenges, Tamil Nadu’s emergency healthcare system improved several operational indicators over time. Ambulance response time, patient transfer time and hospital handoff time became more efficient after the first COVID-19 wave and remained strong through 2023–2024.

These improvements are important because emergency response time can directly affect maternal and neonatal outcomes. Faster ambulances, smoother referrals and better coordination between emergency teams and hospitals can help save lives during pregnancy-related complications.

Major Improvement in Maternal Health Outcomes

One of the most important findings of the study is the reduction in maternal mortality during the post-pandemic phase. According to the research, maternal mortality fell by 19% to 37 deaths per 100,000 live births. This is significantly lower than India’s national average of 97 deaths per 100,000 live births.

The study also found that home deliveries dropped by more than 36%. This is a positive sign because institutional deliveries are generally safer, especially when complications arise during pregnancy or childbirth.

Other maternal health indicators also improved. Miscarriages declined by 28%, while complicated vaginal births reduced by more than 19%. These figures suggest that stronger emergency care, better access to hospitals and improved maternal health programmes helped reduce risks for pregnant women.

Newborn Health Also Improved

The study also reported meaningful progress in newborn and infant health. Neonatal mortality declined by 17%, while infant mortality fell by 19% during the post-pandemic phase.

These gains suggest that Tamil Nadu’s emergency healthcare system played a major role not only in supporting mothers but also in protecting newborns. Timely ambulance services, better referrals and improved hospital coordination can make a major difference in the first hours and days of a newborn’s life.

The improvement in neonatal and infant health also points to the importance of integrated healthcare. Emergency transport alone is not enough. It must be connected with strong antenatal care, hospital readiness, trained medical staff and effective public health planning.

Why Tamil Nadu’s Model Stands Out

Tamil Nadu has long been recognised for its public health systems, and this study adds further evidence to that reputation. The state’s model stands out because it combines emergency transport, maternal care, healthcare planning and government support at scale.

The 108 ambulance network acts as a critical link between households and hospitals. For pregnant women, especially those in rural or underserved areas, this link can be life-saving. When an emergency occurs, timely transport can decide whether the patient receives care early enough.

The study suggests that Tamil Nadu’s investment in ambulance infrastructure, healthcare staffing and maternal health schemes helped reduce the impact of the pandemic and supported a strong recovery afterwards.

Public Health Investment Played a Key Role

The researchers concluded that consistent government investment helped Tamil Nadu’s health system withstand the shock of COVID-19. Ambulance infrastructure, trained staff, better coordination and maternal health programmes all contributed to improved outcomes.

The study received data support from Emergency Medical Services and the National Health Mission, Tamil Nadu, under the state Health and Family Welfare Department.

Prof. P. Kandaswamy, a retired IPS officer and Professor of Practice at IIT Madras, led the research along with Ashwin Prakash of Moody’s Analytics. According to Prof. Kandaswamy, Tamil Nadu faced severe disruptions in maternal healthcare during the pandemic, particularly during the second wave. Home deliveries increased and maternal mortality rose sharply during that period.

However, the post-pandemic recovery tells a different story. Rather than showing long-term damage, the data shows a system that adapted, recovered and improved.

A Counter-Narrative to COVID-19 Healthcare Disruption

Globally, COVID-19 is often discussed as a crisis that weakened healthcare systems. That is true in many ways. Hospitals were overwhelmed, routine care was interrupted and emergency services faced enormous pressure.

However, the IIT Madras study presents a more hopeful counter-narrative. It shows that when a healthcare system receives sustained investment and policy support, it can emerge stronger after a crisis.

This does not mean the pandemic was not damaging. Tamil Nadu also faced serious challenges, especially during the second wave. But the state’s recovery shows that strong public systems can absorb shocks and later deliver better outcomes.

Lessons for Other Indian States

Tamil Nadu’s experience offers a practical blueprint for other Indian states, especially those with higher maternal mortality rates and weaker emergency transport systems.

The key lessons are clear. States need strong ambulance networks, risk-based antenatal care, efficient referral pathways and better coordination between emergency services and hospitals. Maternal care should not function in isolation. It must be connected to emergency transport and public health planning.

The study also highlights the value of data. By using eight years of ambulance registry records, researchers were able to identify trends, measure performance and connect emergency service efficiency with health outcomes. Other states can use similar data-driven approaches to improve healthcare delivery.

Why This Study Matters

This research matters because it connects operational performance with real health outcomes. It does not only ask whether ambulances arrived faster. It also looks at whether mothers and newborns benefited from a stronger emergency care system.

For policymakers, this is valuable evidence. It shows that investments in emergency medical services are not only useful during disasters but can continue to improve healthcare outcomes long after a crisis has passed.

The researchers also caution that the study shows strong associations rather than direct causation. This means more long-term research will be needed to fully understand all contributing factors. Even so, the findings strongly suggest that consistent investment in emergency healthcare and maternal services can produce transformative results.

Conclusion

The IIT Madras study on Tamil Nadu’s emergency healthcare system offers an important message for India’s public health future. COVID-19 created severe disruption, but Tamil Nadu’s response shows that strong systems can recover, adapt and improve.

With faster ambulance response, lower maternal mortality, fewer home deliveries and better newborn health outcomes, Tamil Nadu has demonstrated the value of sustained public investment in healthcare.

For other states, the lesson is clear: resilient healthcare systems are not built overnight. They require planning, funding, trained personnel, reliable emergency transport and strong public health programmes. When these elements come together, the results can save lives and create a stronger future for mothers and children.

FAQs

1. What is the IIT Madras study about?

The IIT Madras study examines Tamil Nadu’s emergency healthcare system using eight years of ambulance data from the state’s 108 emergency response service. It focuses on maternal and newborn health outcomes before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

2. What period does the study cover?

The study covers the period from 2017 to 2024. It analyses pre-pandemic years, different COVID-19 phases and the post-pandemic recovery period of 2023–2024.

3. What were the major findings of the study?

The study found that Tamil Nadu improved ambulance response time, patient transfer time and hospital handoff time after the first COVID-19 wave. It also reported lower maternal mortality, fewer home deliveries, reduced miscarriages and improved neonatal and infant survival.

4. How much did maternal mortality decline in Tamil Nadu?

According to the study, maternal mortality fell by 19% to 37 deaths per 100,000 live births in the post-pandemic phase. This is much lower than India’s national average of 97 deaths per 100,000 live births.

5. Why is Tamil Nadu’s emergency healthcare model important?

Tamil Nadu’s model is important because it combines ambulance services, maternal healthcare, referral systems and public health planning at scale. It offers a practical example for other Indian states looking to strengthen emergency care and improve maternal and newborn health outcomes.

The agreement was signed on 18 April 2026 and is expected to create new academic and professional pathways for students interested in working in cruise lines, luxury hotels, overseas kitchens, international bakeries and global catering establishments. With the hospitality industry becoming increasingly global, this partnership comes at an important time for students who want practical skills, international exposure and strong placement support.

A Partnership Focused on Global Careers

The collaboration between SRM Institute of Hotel Management and Kamaxi Skills is designed to connect classroom learning with real industry requirements. Kamaxi Skills is well known for hospitality training and placement support, especially in cruise lines and international job markets. Through this partnership, SRM students will gain access to specialised training programmes that focus on global standards in culinary arts, bakery and pastry.

As part of the MoU, two six-month programmes will be introduced at the SRM campus. These are the International Culinary Program and the Global Bakery and Pastry Program. Both programmes are expected to help students build practical skills that are highly valued in the hospitality sector.

MoU Signed in the Presence of SRM IST Registrar

The MoU was signed in the presence of Dr. S. Ponnusamy, Registrar of SRM Institute of Science and Technology. Representing SRM Institute of Hotel Management, the agreement was signed by Dr. D. Antony Ashok Kumar. On behalf of Kamaxi Skills, the MoU was signed by Mr. Subhasis Mandal, Principal of Kamaxi Skills, who was accompanied by Ms. Sabina Dsouza, Director of Programmes.

The presence of senior academic and institutional representatives highlights the importance of this collaboration. It also reflects SRM’s continued focus on building industry partnerships that can improve student employability and create stronger professional outcomes.

Why This Collaboration Matters for Hospitality Students

Hospitality education today is no longer limited to classroom theory or basic hotel operations. Employers now look for candidates who understand international service standards, food safety, hygiene protocols, teamwork, communication and guest handling. Students also need hands-on training that prepares them for real work environments.

This is where the SRM-Kamaxi partnership becomes valuable. By combining SRM’s academic environment with Kamaxi Skills’ industry connections, students can receive training that is more aligned with employment expectations. The collaboration focuses not only on education but also on career outcomes.

For students aiming to work abroad, such training can be especially useful. International hospitality jobs often require confidence, adaptability and exposure to multicultural work environments. Programmes like these can help students become more job-ready and competitive.

International Culinary Program

The International Culinary Program is expected to help students strengthen their practical kitchen skills and understand global culinary standards. Culinary students must learn far more than recipes. They need to understand food preparation techniques, kitchen discipline, presentation, safety, hygiene and consistency.

Through this programme, students may get the opportunity to develop these skills in a structured format. The course can help them prepare for roles in hotels, restaurants, cruise kitchens and international food service companies.

For students who dream of becoming chefs or working in global kitchens, this programme can provide a strong foundation. It can also help them understand how professional kitchens function across different countries and hospitality segments.

Global Bakery and Pastry Program

The second programme, the Global Bakery and Pastry Program, is designed for students interested in specialised roles in baking, pastry arts and dessert production. Bakery and pastry is a growing field within hospitality, with demand in hotels, bakeries, cafés, cruise lines and catering companies.

This programme can help students learn techniques related to breads, cakes, pastries, desserts and bakery production. It can also prepare them for the discipline and precision required in professional bakery and pastry kitchens.

With global demand for skilled pastry chefs and bakery professionals, this programme can open promising career paths for students who want to specialise in this area.

Cruise Line and Overseas Placement Opportunities

One of the biggest advantages of this collaboration is the placement support offered through Kamaxi Skills. Students may get access to opportunities in reputed cruise lines such as Oceania Cruises, Thomson Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Margaritaville Cruise Line, Viking Cruises, The Apollo Group, Cordelia Cruises and MSC Cruises.

Cruise line careers are attractive for many hospitality students because they offer international exposure, multicultural work environments and the chance to travel while working. However, these roles require strong discipline, technical skills and the ability to work in fast-paced conditions. Industry-focused training can help students prepare better for such opportunities.

Apart from cruise lines, students may also benefit from internship and placement opportunities in countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada and Australia. These international pathways can help students gain overseas experience, which often improves long-term employability and career growth.

Bridging the Gap Between Classroom and Industry

One of the major challenges in hospitality education is the gap between academic learning and workplace requirements. Students may study hotel management, culinary arts or bakery skills, but employers often expect them to be ready for practical responsibilities from day one.

The new programmes introduced under this MoU aim to reduce that gap. By focusing on skill-based learning, industry mentorship and global placement support, the partnership can help students move more smoothly from training to employment.

The programmes are also open to both SRM students and Kamaxi students. This cross-institutional model can encourage knowledge exchange and improve the overall training experience.

Growing Demand for Global Hospitality Skills

The hospitality industry is expanding across several areas, including cruise tourism, luxury hotels, fine dining, international catering, bakery and food service. As the sector grows, there is a rising demand for trained professionals who can work in global environments.

Employers today prefer candidates who are skilled, adaptable and familiar with international standards. Students who receive such training early in their academic journey may have an advantage when applying for internships and jobs.

This makes the SRM-Kamaxi collaboration timely and relevant. It responds directly to the needs of the hospitality industry and provides students with a clearer route to international careers.

A Step Towards Employment-Oriented Education

The MoU reinforces SRM Institute of Hotel Management’s commitment to employment-focused education. By partnering with Kamaxi Skills, the institute is creating opportunities that go beyond traditional degree learning.

For students, the benefits are clear. They can gain practical skills, receive industry-linked training, explore cruise line careers and access international internship or placement opportunities. For the institute, the partnership strengthens its position as a hospitality education provider with strong career-focused outcomes.

As the new programmes begin, SRM Institute of Hotel Management and Kamaxi Skills are likely to play an important role in shaping the future of global hospitality training in India.

FAQs

1. What is the MoU between SRM Institute of Hotel Management and Kamaxi Skills about?

The MoU is a collaboration between SRM Institute of Hotel Management and Kamaxi Skills, Goa, to introduce international culinary and bakery-pastry programmes. It aims to provide students with industry-focused training, cruise line opportunities, overseas internships and global placement support.

2. When was the MoU signed?

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on 18 April 2026 at the SRM Institute of Science and Technology campus in Kattankulathur.

3. Which new programmes will be introduced under this partnership?

Two six-month programmes will be introduced: the International Culinary Program and the Global Bakery and Pastry Program. Both programmes will be conducted at the SRM campus.

4. What placement opportunities can students get through this collaboration?

Students may get access to placement opportunities in reputed cruise lines such as Oceania Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Viking Cruises, Cordelia Cruises, MSC Cruises and others. They may also explore internships and placements in countries such as the UK, Germany, Canada and Australia.

5. Why is this partnership important for hospitality students?

This partnership is important because it combines academic learning with practical, industry-linked training. It can help students develop global hospitality skills, improve employability and prepare for international careers in hotels, cruise lines, culinary establishments and bakery-pastry roles.