Publication:

From paper records to digital platforms: web-based applications in maternal and child healthcare in India

India's maternal and child health (MCH) landscape has undergone a significant digital transformation over the past decade. The shift from paper-based records to web and mobile-based platforms has enabled more systematic tracking, monitoring, and delivery of essential health services. Digital tools are now central to India's national health programmes, particularly those addressing reproductive, maternal, neonatal, and child health (RMNCH). This review describes key web-based and mobile applications currently in use for MCHcare in India, with a focus on their features, scope, and role in programme delivery and monitoring. A narrative review was conducted using published literature, government reports, and programme documentation available up to January 2026. Applications reviewed include the reproductive and child health (RCH) portal, ANM Online (ANMOL), POSHAN tracker, U-WIN, electronic vaccine intelligence network (e-VIN), and Kilkari. Each platform serves a distinct yet interlinked function: beneficiary registration and tracking, nutritional surveillance, immunisation management, vaccine logistics, and health communication. Together, they form an increasingly integrated digital MCH ecosystem. However, persistent challenges, including poor network connectivity, limited digital literacy, device availability, cost sustainability, and data security concerns, continue to constrain their effectiveness, particularly in resource-limited settings. Web-based applications have strengthened the delivery and monitoring of MCH services in India. Realising their full potential requires sustained investment in digital infrastructure, workforce capacity building, and governance frameworks that ensure data privacy and interoperability.