A district health officer in rural Maharashtra is tasked with reducing the infant mortality rate (IMR) in a region where it currently stands at 58 per 1000 live births. After analyzing vital statistics, the officer identifies that 60% of infant deaths occur in the neonatal period, with sepsis and respiratory distress syndrome being the leading causes. The district has limited resources but adequate primary health centers. What is the most appropriate next step in management to reduce IMR most effectively?