💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (July Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Subject: Indian Society

  • Trends in Maternal Mortality (2000-2023), Report

    Why in the News?

    In 2023, India had the second-highest maternal deaths globally, with 19,000 deaths, tied with the Democratic Republic of Congo, and second only to Nigeria. This equated to 52 fatalities daily according to the UN Report.

    Trends in Maternal Mortality (2000-2023), Report

    About the UN Report

    • The report, titled ‘Trends in Maternal Mortality 2000-2023’, was prepared by the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, UN Population Fund, World Bank, and the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (population division).
    • It provides global data on maternal mortality and highlights the countries with the highest rates of maternal deaths.

    Note:

    • Maternal Mortality refers to the death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days after delivery, due to complications related to pregnancy or childbirth, as per WHO.
    • Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) refers to the number of maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in a given time period, usually over a year.

    Key Highlights of the Report:

    • Nigeria had the highest number of maternal deaths with 75,000 deaths, accounting for 28.7% of global deaths in 2023.
    • The top four countries (India, Nigeria, DRC, Pakistan) accounted for 47% of global maternal deaths.
    • Despite a population similar to India, China had only 1,400 maternal deaths in 2023.
    • Maternal mortality globally declined by 40% between 2000 and 2023, due to improved healthcare access.
    • COVID-19 caused an additional 40,000 maternal deaths in 2021 due to service disruptions.
    • The global MMR remained high, with 260,000 maternal deaths in 2023, one death every two minutes.

    India’s Progress in Reducing Maternal Mortality:

    • India’s MMR declined by 78% from 362 in 2000 to 80 in 2023 (NFHS 2019-21).
    • Institutional deliveries increased from 79% in 2015-16 to 89% in 2019-21, with Kerala achieving 100%.
    • Eight states (including Kerala, Maharashtra, Telangana, Tamil Nadu) reduced MMR to below the SDG target of 70 per 100,000 live births.

    Various Schemes for Maternal Health in India:

    Scheme  Launched Objective Notable Features Target Beneficiaries
    Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) 2005 To reduce maternal and neonatal mortality by promoting institutional deliveries. Cash incentives, Focus on rural areas, Increased access to institutional deliveries. Pregnant women from poor socio-economic backgrounds.
    Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) 2017 To provide maternity benefits and promote institutional deliveries. Cash benefit of ₹5,000 for the first child, Additional incentives for girl child under PMMVY 2.0. Women pregnant with their first child after 01.01.2017.
    Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram (JSSK) 2011 To eliminate out-of-pocket expenses for pregnant women and sick infants. Free delivery services, Free transport, Free post-delivery services. Pregnant women and sick infants in public health institutions.
    Surakshit Matritva Aashwasan (SUMAN) 2019 To provide assured, dignified, and quality healthcare at no cost. Zero denial policy, Quality of care, Focus on respectful care. All pregnant women and newborns visiting public health institutions.
    LaQshya 2017 To improve the quality of care in labor rooms and maternity operation theatres. Focus on improving infrastructure, Monitoring and evaluation, Quality assurance. Pregnant women receiving care in labor rooms and maternity OT.

     

    [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements in relation to Janani Suraksha Yojna:

    1. It is safe motherhood intervention of the State Health Departments.

    2. Its objective is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality among poor pregnant women.

    3. It aims to promote institutional delivery among poor pregnant women.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

     

  • A people still waiting to move out of the margins

    Why in the News?

    International Transgender Day of Visibility, held on March 31, brings attention to the problems transgender people still face, like unfair treatment in schools, jobs, and healthcare.

    What challenges do transgender individuals face despite the 2019 Transgender Rights Act?

    • Delays in Legal Recognition and ID Issuance: The certification process for transgender identity is slow and bureaucratic. e.g. As of December 2023, over 3,200 applications on the National Portal were pending beyond the 30-day limit.
    • Lack of Self-Determination in Identity Recognition: The Act mandates a certification process rather than allowing self-identification, unlike global best practices. e.g. Transgender persons must get approval from a district magistrate instead of simply self-declaring their identity.
    • Poor Implementation of Welfare Schemes: Many government schemes meant for transgender individuals are poorly implemented or inaccessible. e.g. In Delhi, out of about 4,200 transgender people (2011 Census), only 23 ID cards were issued by April 2022.
    • No Provisions for Protection from Family Rejection or Police Harassment: The Act does not address key social challenges like violence, rejection, or abuse. e.g. Transgender persons facing domestic violence or harassment by authorities have little legal recourse under the Act.
    • Continued Social Exclusion and Stigma: Despite legal recognition, social acceptance remains low, leading to discrimination in daily life. e.g. Many transgender individuals are still denied housing, employment, and public services due to prejudice.

    Why does economic exclusion persist for the transgender community in India?

    • Hiring Discrimination and Workplace Bias: Transgender individuals face exclusion during recruitment and hostility at work. e.g. A 2022 study reported a 48% unemployment rate among transgender people, far higher than the national average of 7-8%.
    • Limited Industry Adoption of Inclusive Policies: Only a few companies have adopted transgender-inclusive hiring and workplace practices. e.g. while Tata Steel hired over 100 transgender employees, such initiatives are not widely adopted across industries.
    • Barriers to Financial Inclusion: Many transgender individuals face hurdles in opening bank accounts or accessing credit. e.g. Despite a 2024 clarification allowing LGBTQ+ individuals to open joint bank accounts, broader financial exclusion still persists.

    How do barriers in education and healthcare impact transgender inclusion?

    • High Dropout Rates Due to Bullying and Harassment: Discrimination in schools leads to low retention and poor educational outcomes. e.g. In Kerala, 58% of transgender students dropped out due to bullying and lack of support.
    • Low Literacy Levels Limit Opportunities: Inadequate access to quality education restricts upward mobility. e.g. The 2011 Census reported a transgender literacy rate of 56.1%, compared to the national average of 74.04%.
    • Lack of Gender-Sensitive Infrastructure in Schools and Colleges: The absence of gender-neutral toilets and inclusive curricula creates an unwelcoming environment. e.g. Few institutions offer facilities like separate hostel rooms or transgender cells; Maharashtra is among the few states addressing this.
    • Denial of Basic Healthcare Services: Transgender individuals are often refused treatment or face discrimination in hospitals. e.g. A National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) survey found that 27% were denied healthcare due to their gender identity.
    • Limited Access to Gender-Affirming Treatments: High costs and lack of insurance make crucial medical procedures unaffordable. e.g. Gender-affirming surgeries cost between ₹2 lakh to ₹5 lakh, and despite the launch of Ayushman Bharat TG Plus, implementation is patchy.

    Which state-level initiatives support transgender students in education?

    • Maharashtra – Transgender Cells in Colleges: The state has established dedicated support cells in colleges to address the needs of transgender students. e.g. These cells help create a more inclusive academic environment by offering counseling and redressal mechanisms.
    • Kerala – Reservation and Hostel Facilities: Kerala has introduced reserved seats for transgender students in universities and provided separate hostel facilities. e.g. The University of Kerala reserves seats for transgender individuals in postgraduate courses and provides dedicated accommodations.
    • Tamil Nadu – Scholarships and Welfare Schemes: Tamil Nadu provides scholarships and educational assistance specifically for transgender students. e.g. The Third Gender Welfare Board supports education, skill training, and financial aid for transgender persons.

    What measures can ensure genuine inclusion beyond symbolic visibility days?

    • Enforce Anti-Discrimination Laws and Policies: Strong legal enforcement is needed to protect transgender rights in workplaces, schools, and public spaces. e.g. Implementing mandatory anti-discrimination clauses in employment policies can reduce workplace bias and ensure accountability.
    • Promote Gender Sensitisation in Institutions: Regular awareness and training programs in schools, universities, and offices can change attitudes. e.g. Including transgender awareness in school curricula and conducting sensitisation workshops in workplaces helps reduce stigma and foster inclusion.
    • Support Transgender Economic Empowerment: Inclusive hiring, access to credit, and government-backed entrepreneurship programs can boost livelihoods. e.g. Initiatives like targeted financial schemes and diversity hiring programs can help transgender entrepreneurs start businesses and gain financial independence.

     

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2024] Despite comprehensive policies for equity and social justice, underprivileged sections are not yet getting the full benefits of affirmative action envisaged by the Constitution. Comment.

    Linkage: Lack of progress for underprivileged sections despite policy efforts.

  • Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH 

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Ayush is implementing the Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH to enhance global recognition and development of AYUSH systems, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy.

    About the Scheme

    • The scheme focuses on promoting AYUSH systems internationally, contributing to their global growth.
    • The scheme is announced on the AYUSH website, and applications are invited through open advertisements.
    • Proposals are screened by a committee and approved for financial assistance based on needs and activity limits.
    • Key Components of the Scheme:
      1. International Exchange of Experts & Officers: Facilitates deputation of AYUSH experts for international conferences and training.
      2. Incentives for Drug Manufacturers: Provides financial support for international propagation and product registration.
      3. Market Development Support: Supports exhibitions, conferences, and market surveys for international market development.
      4. Promotion through Young Postgraduates: Deploys young postgraduates to promote AYUSH abroad through NGOs.
      5. Translation and Publication: Funds the translation and publication of AYUSH literature in foreign languages.
      6. AYUSH Information Cells/Health Centres: Establishes AYUSH cells and health centers in foreign countries through Indian missions.
      7. International Fellowship Programme: Offers fellowships to foreign nationals to study AYUSH courses in India.

    Significance of Yoga and AYUSH in India’s International Outreach

    • The International Day of Yoga (IDY) was declared by the United Nations in 2014, with ₹161 crore spent on its promotion. IDY celebrations spread Yoga’s global message.
    • Yoga is now part of the National Curriculum Framework (NCF), making it compulsory for students from Class I to Class X.
    • The Yoga Certification Board (YCB) under the Ministry of Ayush certifies yoga professionals and accredits institutions, ensuring quality and standards in Yoga practice.
    • The Ministry of Ayush has signed 24 Country-to-Country MoUs and 51 Institute-to-Institute MoUs to promote Indian traditional medicine systems globally.

  • Gender gap in household chores persists in urban India

    Why in the News?

    More urban women have paid jobs but still handle most household work. Though more men now help, the gender gap remains wide. Northeastern states see higher male participation in domestic works.

    What are the trends in urban women’s participation in paid jobs and household work?

    • Increase in Paid Employment but Still Low: The share of urban women engaged in paid work rose from 15.5% in 2019 to 18% in 2024. Example: In Tamil Nadu and Telangana, about 25% of urban women participate in paid work, significantly higher than Bihar (9%) and Uttar Pradesh (10%).
    • Unpaid Household Work Burden Remains High: Despite employment growth, the share of women doing unpaid household work increased from 79.3% to 81%. Example: In Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh, over 80% of employed women also do unpaid domestic chores, highlighting the dual burden.
    • More Men Helping, but Gender Gap Persists: The share of urban men doing unpaid domestic work rose from 23% to 28.5%, but women’s share remains disproportionately high. Example: In Kerala and Northeastern states (Sikkim, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh), over 50% of urban men participate in household chores, while in most states, it remains between 20-40%.

    Why does the gender gap in household chores persist despite more men helping?

    • Deeply Rooted Social Norms and Gender Roles: Household work is still perceived as a woman’s responsibility, while men’s participation is seen as “helping” rather than sharing duties equally.
      Example: Even in urban households where women work full-time, they are expected to manage cooking, cleaning, and childcare, while men engage in minimal domestic tasks.
    • Unequal Time Distribution Between Paid and Unpaid Work: Women balance both employment and domestic responsibilities, whereas men often focus primarily on paid jobs. Example: In Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh, over 80% of employed women still do household chores, while men’s share remains significantly lower.
    • Limited Structural Support for Household Work: Lack of affordable childcare, elderly care services, and domestic help forces women to take on more unpaid work. Example: Countries like Sweden offer state-funded childcare and paternity leave, reducing the burden on women, whereas India lacks similar support systems.
    • Workplace Expectations and Rigid Work Hours: Men often work longer hours outside the home and face social stigma if they take time off for household chores. Example: In corporate India, men who seek flexible work hours for family responsibilities may face negative career perceptions, unlike in Nordic countries, where parental leave is encouraged for both genders.
    • State-Wise Cultural Differences in Gender Roles: Some states, particularly in Northeast India (Sikkim, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh), have higher male participation in household chores due to more egalitarian traditions. Example: In Kerala, 44% of men contribute to domestic work, but in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, men’s participation remains under 30% due to traditional patriarchal norms.

    Which Indian states have the most urban men doing unpaid household work?

    • Northeastern States Lead in Male Participation: Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland have the highest share of urban men engaged in household chores, with over 50% participation. Example: In these states, matrilineal or more egalitarian traditions encourage men to take on domestic responsibilities, unlike in many other parts of India.
    • Kerala Tops Among Major States: Kerala has 44% of urban men involved in household work, the highest among major Indian states. Example: Kerala’s higher literacy rates, progressive gender norms, and a strong service sector contribute to greater male involvement in domestic chores compared to states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, where men’s participation remains below 30%.

    Why is female workforce participation higher in Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Karnataka?

    • Strong Industrial and Service Sectors: These states have thriving industries like textiles, IT, and manufacturing, which offer more employment opportunities for women. Example: Tamil Nadu’s garment industry, Telangana’s pharmaceutical sector, and Karnataka’s IT and startup ecosystem employ a significant number of women.
    • Progressive Socio-Cultural Norms and Policies: Higher literacy rates, better education access, and state-driven welfare policies encourage female employment. Example: Tamil Nadu’s Cradle Baby Scheme and Telangana’s WE-Hub for women entrepreneurs promote women’s workforce participation.
    • Higher Urbanization and Better Infrastructure: Cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru provide better public transport, safety measures, and childcare facilities, making it easier for women to work. Example: Karnataka’s free bus travel for women initiative improves women’s mobility, indirectly supporting their workforce participation.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Gender-Inclusive Policies: Implement affordable childcare, flexible work hours, and workplace safety measures to support women’s workforce participation.
    • Encouraging Equal Domestic Responsibility: Promote shared household duties through awareness campaigns, parental leave policies, and incentives for men to engage in unpaid domestic work.

    Mains PYQ:

    Question: Distinguish between gender equality, gender equity and women’s empowerment. Why is it important to take gender concerns into account in programme design and implementation? [UPSC 2024]

    Linkage: The gap between men and women in household work shows that equality at home is still missing, making it harder for women to be truly empowered.

  • India ranked 118th on the World Happiness Index

    Why in the News?

    India has improved its position in the World Happiness Report 2025, climbing to 118th place among 147 countries, up from 126th last year.

    About the World Happiness Index (WHI)

    • The WHI is part of the World Happiness Report, a global survey conducted by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), an initiative of the United Nations.
    • The report ranks countries based on citizens’ self-reported happiness, focusing on life satisfaction and overall well-being.
    • The rankings are primarily based on data gathered from the Gallup World Poll, where individuals rate their own lives on a 0-10 scale using the Cantril Ladder method.
    • 6 key factors influence these evaluations:
    1. GDP per capita
    2. Healthy life expectancy
    3. Social support
    4. Freedom
    5. Generosity
    6. Perception of corruption

    Key Highlights of the World Happiness Report 2025:

    • Top Countries: Finland remains the happiest country for the eighth consecutive year. Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden are also in the top ranks. Costa Rica (6th) and Mexico (10th) entered the top 10 for the first time. Israel ranked 8th despite conflicts.
    • Declining Happiness in Western Nations: The United States dropped to 24th, and the United Kingdom fell to 23rd, with both countries experiencing increased social isolation.
    • Least Happy Countries: Afghanistan remains the least happy, with Sierra Leone and Lebanon also in the bottom three.
    • India’s Improvement:
    • India improved its ranking from 126th to 118th, with its happiness score rising from 4.054 to 4.389.
      • Despite its economic growth, technological advancements, and improvements in healthcare and education, it continues to rank lower than its neighboring countries like Pakistan (109th).

    PYQ:

    [UPSC 2004] Human Development Index comprises literacy rates, life expectancy at birth and-

    (a) Gross Domestic Product per head in US dollars

    (b) Gross National Product per head in US dollars

    (c) Purchasing Power Parity in US dollars

    (d) National Income per head in US dollars

     

  • Health Expenditure at 1.84% of GDP

    Why in the News?

    The Union government has steadily increased its spending on healthcare, with the expenditure rising to 1.84% of GDP in 2021-22, up from 1.15% in 2013-14.

    Overview of India’s Health Expenditure

    • India has shown a consistent increase in government spending on healthcare, reflecting a growing commitment to improving the public healthcare system.
    • As of 2021-22, government health expenditure (GHE) rose to 1.84% of GDP, up from 1.15% in 2013-14, and is on track to meet the National Health Policy 2017 target of 2.5% of GDP by 2025.
    • The rise in health expenditure has been particularly significant post–COVID-19, with a 37% increase in government spending from 2020-21 to 2021-22.
    • This has led to better healthcare accessibility, reduced financial burden on individuals, and greater focus on strengthening healthcare infrastructure.

    What is Total Health Expenditure?

    • Total Health Expenditure (THE) refers to the sum of all current and capital expenditures incurred by the government, private sector, and external sources for healthcare purposes in a given period.
    • This includes:
      • Current Health Expenditure (CHE): Ongoing spending on healthcare services, such as hospitals, doctor visits, and medical supplies.
      • Capital Expenditure: Investments in healthcare infrastructure, such as building hospitals or purchasing medical equipment.
    • In 2020-21, India’s THE was estimated at ₹7,39,327 crores, constituting 3.73% of GDP, with a per capita expenditure of ₹5,436.
    • In 2021-22, this figure increased to ₹9,04,461 crores, representing 3.83% of GDP, reflecting a proactive government response to healthcare challenges and pandemic management.

    Reasons for Reduced Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE)

    The reduction in OOPE can be attributed to:

    • Increased government health spending, making healthcare more affordable.
    • Expansion of public health services, including vaccination and preventive care.
    • Growth in government-funded health insurance and social security programs, reducing reliance on personal funds.
    • Health initiatives like Ayushman Bharat have eased the financial burden.
    • Improved public healthcare access and financial protection have reduced hardship for low- and middle-income families.

    PYQ:

    [2021] “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse.

     

  • A regional divide in blue-collar worker migration from India

    Why in the News?

    Recent data show a decline in remittances from Gulf countries to India, while contributions from advanced economies have grown.

    Why has the share of remittances from Gulf countries to India declined while contributions from advanced economies have increased?

    • Wage Stagnation and Cost of Living in the Gulf: Wages in Gulf countries have remained relatively stagnant, while the cost of living has increased, reducing the savings and ability to send money home of Indian workers. Example: The UAE introduced a Value Added Tax (VAT) in 2018, increasing living costs for migrant workers.
    • Shift in Migration Patterns Toward High-Income Countries: More Indian professionals and skilled workers are migrating to advanced economies like the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., where salaries are higher. Example: The number of Indian students and skilled workers in Canada has surged, contributing to rising remittances from the country.
    • Stringent Localization Policies in the Gulf:  Gulf nations have implemented employment nationalization policies that push for localization in jobs (e.g., Saudization in Saudi Arabia, Nitaqat in UAE), shrinking opportunities for foreign workers, including Indians.
    • Depreciation of Gulf Currencies Against the U.S. Dollar: The exchange rates of Gulf currencies, which are tied to U.S. dollar, have not appreciated significantly, while the Indian rupee has remained relatively stable. Example: A stronger U.S. dollar means remittances from the U.S. convert to more Indian rupees compared to Gulf remittances.
    • Expansion of India’s IT and Healthcare Workforce Abroad: Skilled professionals in IT, healthcare, and finance are securing jobs in developed countries, leading to increased remittances from these sectors. Example: Indian tech workers in the U.S. under the H-1B visa program send substantial remittances back home, contributing to the U.S.’s growing share.

     

    Global Migration & Remittance Shifts: How India Compares with Other Nations Traditional Remittance Sources New Migration Trends Key Drivers of Change
    India Gulf countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) U.S., Canada, U.K., Germany Wage stagnation in the Gulf, rise in high-skilled migration, better job opportunities in advanced economies
    Philippines Middle East, Southeast Asia U.S., Canada, Australia Strong demand for healthcare workers, education-driven migration, better worker rights in Western nations
    Vietnam Japan, South Korea, Taiwan U.S., Europe, Australia Economic ties with Western economies, investment in skilled workforce
    Mexico U.S. Europe, South America Stricter U.S. immigration policies, expansion of trade ties with Spain and Latin America
    Bangladesh Gulf countries, Malaysia Limited shift; still Gulf-dependent Fewer high-skilled migration pathways, reliance on traditional labor jobs
    Pakistan Saudi Arabia, UAE Minimal change; remains Gulf-dependent Economic constraints, limited alternative migration routes

     

    What are the reasons behind the decline in the number of blue-collar workers emigrating from the Southern States to the Gulf?

    • Improved Employment Opportunities in India: Economic growth and industrial expansion in southern states have created more local job opportunities, reducing the need for migration. Example: Tamil Nadu and Telangana have seen growth in manufacturing (automobiles, electronics) and IT sectors, offering better wages compared to low-paying Gulf jobs.
    • Stringent Gulf Employment Policies & Localization Programs: Gulf nations have implemented policies like Saudization and Emiratization, prioritizing local workers over foreign laborers, reducing demand for Indian blue-collar workers. Example: Saudi Arabia’s Nitaqat system has restricted Indian employment in sectors like retail and construction.
    • Higher Migration Costs and Reduced Financial Returns: The cost of migration, including visa fees, recruitment charges, and living expenses, has risen, while wages in the Gulf have remained stagnant, making migration less attractive. Example: In Kerala, many workers are opting for European destinations (e.g., Italy, Germany) instead of the Gulf due to better wages and worker rights.

    How has the shift in migration patterns impacted States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and West Bengal in terms of remittance inflows?

    • Slower Growth in Remittance Inflows: These states still send large numbers of workers to the Gulf, where wages and remittances are lower compared to advanced economies. Example: Despite high migration from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, their share in India’s total remittances remains low (around 3%), while Kerala and Maharashtra, with migrants in high-income countries, receive a higher share.
    • Limited Economic Upliftment Due to Lower Earnings: Since Gulf remittances have lower financial returns, households in these states see limited improvements in savings and investments. Example: While Tamil Nadu and Kerala benefit from higher wages in the U.S. and the U.K., families in Rajasthan and West Bengal largely rely on low-wage Gulf jobs, leading to slower economic mobility.
    • Higher Economic Vulnerability and Migration Dependency: With fewer alternative employment opportunities, many continue to migrate to the Gulf despite lower wages, reinforcing economic dependence on remittances. Example: Unlike Punjab, where migration to Canada has increased financial stability, states like Bihar still rely on remittances from Gulf labor, leaving them more vulnerable to economic downturns in the region.

    Which factors contribute to the continued high migration from northern and eastern States to the Gulf despite lower financial returns?

    • Skill Development and Certification Programs: Initiatives like the Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY) aim to enhance the skills of Indian workers, making them eligible for higher-paying jobs abroad. Example: The program aligns skill training with international standards, increasing employment prospects in advanced economies.
    • Bilateral Agreements and Labour Welfare Measures: India has signed labor agreements with Gulf countries to ensure better working conditions, fair wages, and legal protection for migrant workers. Example: The India-UAE MoU on Labor Cooperation provides safeguards against exploitation and ensures wage protection.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhancing High-Skilled Migration Pathways: The government should strengthen bilateral agreements with high-income countries to facilitate the migration of skilled professionals, particularly in IT, healthcare, and engineering.
      • Expanding initiatives like the India-Germany Skilled Workers Pact and negotiating better visa policies with the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. will ensure higher remittance inflows.
    • Skill Development and Certification for Diversified Destinations: To reduce dependence on Gulf remittances, India should invest in internationally recognized skill training through programs like Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and collaborate with European and East Asian countries for labor mobility agreements.

    Mains PYQ:

     Q Discuss the changes in the trends of labour migration within and outside India in the last four decades. (2015)

    Reason: This PYQ asks for a discussion of changes in labour migration trends over a significant historical period (the last four decades) and across both internal and external migration.

  • A school closure that must be called out

    Why in the News?

    The shutdown of the only Gondi-medium school in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district, which was started in 2019 by the Mohgaon gram panchayat, raises concerns about tribal students learning in their own language.

    What constitutional provisions support the preservation of Adivasi languages and cultures in India?

    • Article 29: Protects the rights of minorities to conserve their distinct languages, scripts, and cultures.
    • Article 350A: Directs the state to provide adequate facilities for instruction in the mother tongue at the primary education level for minority children.
    • Fifth Schedule: Provides special protections and governance provisions for Scheduled Areas, where many Adivasi communities reside.
    • Sixth Schedule: Grants autonomy to certain tribal areas in the northeastern states, allowing self-governance and cultural preservation.
    • Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA): Recognizes the role of gram sabhas in self-governance, including decisions related to education in tribal areas.

    How do the forces of absorption in secular and religious realms impact Adivasi communities?

    • Marginalization of Adivasi Languages in Education: Adivasi students are forced to learn in dominant languages, leading to the decline of their mother tongues and weakening of cultural identity. Example: The closure of the Gondi-medium school in Maharashtra due to non-recognition under the Right to Education Act.
    • Loss of Land and Displacement Due to Development Projects: Adivasi communities are displaced from their ancestral lands due to industrial and infrastructural projects, leading to economic instability and cultural loss. Example: Large-scale mining and dam projects in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh have forced many Adivasis to migrate to urban slums.
    • Religious Assimilation and Erosion of Indigenous Beliefs: Traditional tribal religious practices are undermined or replaced by dominant religions, leading to cultural homogenization. Example: The decline of Sarna worship among Adivasis due to conversions to Hinduism and Christianity.
    • Market-Driven Cultural Appropriation: Tribal art, music, and traditions are exploited for commercial purposes without benefiting the Adivasi creators. Example: Warli and Gond paintings being sold globally, while many Adivasi artists remain in poverty.
    • Denial of Political and Constitutional Recognition: The lack of official recognition for Adivasi languages and cultures weakens their identity and limits access to resources and opportunities. Example: Gondi, spoken by over 2.9 million people, is not included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, whereas Sanskrit, spoken by fewer than 25,000, is recognized.

    What are the steps taken by the government?

    • National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Emphasizes mother-tongue-based education at the primary level, promoting indigenous languages. Example: Bilingual textbooks in tribal languages have been introduced in states like Odisha and Jharkhand.
    • Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS): Aims to provide quality education to tribal students while incorporating their cultural heritage. Example: Over 700 EMRS schools are planned across India, with some offering instruction in tribal languages.
    • Documentation and Digital Preservation Initiatives: Projects to document and preserve endangered tribal languages and cultures. Example: The Scheme for Protection and Preservation of Endangered Languages (SPPEL) under the CIIL (Central Institute of Indian Languages) focuses on documenting languages like Gondi.

    What are the factors that highlight the contrast between the recognition of Sanskrit and Gondi in the Eighth Schedule?

    • Oral vs. Textual Tradition: Sanskrit has a vast corpus of classical texts and scriptures, whereas Gondi follows an oral tradition, making it vulnerable to erosion without formal preservation efforts. Example: Ancient Sanskrit texts like the Vedas are archived and studied, but Gondi folklore and oral histories are at risk of being lost due to a lack of institutional documentation.
    • Number of Speakers: Gondi is spoken by over 2.9 million people across six states, while Sanskrit has fewer than 25,000 speakers. Example: Despite its widespread use among Adivasi communities, Gondi remains unrecognized, whereas Sanskrit, with a much smaller speaker base, is included in the Eighth Schedule.
    • State Support and Promotion: Sanskrit receives government funding, university courses, and institutional backing, whereas Gondi lacks state-supported educational and literary initiatives. Example: Sanskrit is taught in schools and has dedicated institutions like the Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan, while Gondi-medium schools struggle for recognition, such as the case in Maharashtra.
    • Socio-Political Influence: Sanskrit is associated with elite Brahminical traditions and enjoys support from powerful socio-political groups, whereas Gondi is linked to marginalized Adivasi communities with limited political representation. Example: Political leaders and policymakers advocate for Sanskrit’s preservation, but there is little lobbying for Gondi’s inclusion in the Eighth Schedule.
    • Economic and Employment Relevance: Sanskrit is promoted as a classical and sacred language, but it has minimal practical usage in employment, whereas Gondi is actively spoken by tribal communities in daily life. Example: Sanskrit is used in religious and academic contexts, while Gondi is the primary language for communication among Adivasis, yet lacks state recognition.

    Way forward: 

    • Institutional Recognition and Policy Support: Need to include Gondi and other major Adivasi languages in the Eighth Schedule to ensure constitutional recognition, funding for education, and cultural preservation.
    • Community-Led Preservation and Promotion: The Government should strengthen grassroots efforts by empowering Adivasi organizations, establishing indigenous language schools, and promoting digital documentation of oral traditions.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Given the diversities among tribal communities in India, in which specific contexts should they be considered as a single category? (UPSC IAS/2022) 

    Reason- This question is relevant because the closure of the Gondi-medium school highlights the specific educational needs of a particular tribal community (Gondi speakers).

  • [13th March 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: The dangerous illusion cast by development rankings

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q)  It is argued that the strategy of inclusive growth is intended to meet the objectives of inclusiveness and sustainability together. Comment on this statement. (UPSC CSE 2019)

     

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the strategy of objectives of inclusiveness and sustainability together (2019) and the perspective of inclusive growth and sustainable development. (2020).

    California recently faced devastating wildfires, causing around $250 billion in damage—close to Greece’s GDP in 2023. This reveals the hidden costs of development in wealthy nations. If all countries consumed resources like the U.S. or EU, we would need multiple Earths. Yet, the HDI still promotes these unsustainable models as ideals, ignoring ecological realities.

    Today’s editorial talks about how the Human Development Index (HDI) and the Planetary Pressures-adjusted HDI (PHDI) give a misleading view of progress. This topic is useful for GS Paper 2 and GS Paper 3 in the UPSC Mains exam.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Indicators like the United Nations’ HDI and PHDI overlook the fact that Earth has limited resources, promoting development models that may harm the environment and exceed planetary boundaries.

    How does the Human Development Index (HDI) create a misguided perception of progress?

    • Ignores Environmental Impact: HDI measures life expectancy, education, and income but does not account for the environmental damage caused by development. Example: Countries like the United States and Norway have high HDI scores despite being among the largest carbon emitters and resource consumers.
    • Promotes Unsustainable Consumption Patterns: It celebrates the lifestyles of affluent countries without considering whether these consumption patterns can be replicated globally. Example: If every country consumed resources like the European Union, we would need multiple Earths to sustain global life.
    • Overlooks Inequality and Social Justice: HDI does not reflect internal inequalities within countries, masking disparities in wealth distribution and social justice.
      Example: Despite India’s improving HDI score, significant inequalities exist between rural and urban populations in access to education and healthcare.
    • Creates a One-Size-Fits-All Model of Development: It assumes that higher incomes and longer life expectancy automatically equate to better development, disregarding cultural and ecological diversity. Example: Countries like Costa Rica achieve high life expectancy and literacy with a low ecological footprint, offering a sustainable development model.
    • Fails to Recognize Planetary Boundaries: HDI does not measure whether a country’s development exceeds ecological limits, encouraging a pursuit of progress at the cost of environmental sustainability. Example, Nordic countries maintain top HDI rankings despite consuming resources equivalent to five Earths per capita.

    What is Planetary Pressures-adjusted HDI (PHDI)?

    • The PHDI is a modified version of the Human Development Index (HDI) introduced by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 2020.
    • It adjusts a country’s HDI score by accounting for the environmental impact of its development, particularly focusing on carbon emissions and material consumption.

    Why did the United Nations introduce the Planetary Pressures-adjusted HDI (PHDI)?

    • To Address Environmental Sustainability: The PHDI was introduced to account for the environmental pressures caused by high levels of human development, such as carbon emissions and resource consumption. Example: Countries with high HDI scores, like the United States and Australia, receive lower PHDI rankings due to their significant carbon footprints.
    • To Provide a More Holistic Measure of Progress: It aims to offer a more comprehensive understanding of development by balancing human well-being with environmental responsibility. Example: While Norway ranks highly on the HDI, its PHDI score is reduced because of its high per-capita ecological impact.
    • To Encourage Sustainable Development Models: The PHDI highlights the need for nations to pursue progress within planetary boundaries, promoting more sustainable policy frameworks.
      Example: Costa Rica, with its focus on renewable energy and forest conservation, maintains a more balanced PHDI compared to other high-income countries.

    What should be the true meaning of progress for developing nations like India?

    • Sustainable Development within Ecological Limits: Progress should balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, ensuring the responsible use of natural resources without depleting them for future generations. Example: India’s National Solar Mission aims to increase renewable energy capacity while reducing dependence on fossil fuels, promoting cleaner and sustainable progress.
    • Inclusive and Equitable Growth: Development must ensure social justice by reducing inequalities and providing access to basic services like healthcare, education, and employment for all sections of society. Example: Aspirational Districts Programme focuses on improving underdeveloped areas by enhancing healthcare, education, and infrastructure, fostering inclusive growth.
    • Quality of Life and Human Dignity: True progress prioritizes human well-being, ensuring that every citizen lives with dignity and has access to a safe, healthy, and fulfilling life. Example: The Swachh Bharat Mission improved sanitation across rural India, enhancing public health and ensuring better living conditions.

    Why should developing countries like India adopt a different vision of progress?

    • Environmental Sustainability and Resource Limits: Following the Western model of high consumption is unsustainable for resource-rich but ecologically vulnerable countries. Developing nations must prioritize sustainable practices to avoid environmental degradation. Example: India’s Green Hydrogen Mission aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote clean energy, aligning growth with environmental conservation.
    • Addressing Social Inequalities: A different vision of progress focuses on reducing socio-economic disparities by ensuring equitable access to basic services like healthcare, education, and livelihoods. Example: Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana promotes financial inclusion by providing banking services to marginalized communities, fostering inclusive development.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian government? 

    • National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) (2008): Includes eight missions focusing on renewable energy, water conservation, and sustainable agriculture. Example: The National Solar Mission aims to achieve 280 GW of solar power by 2030.
    • Green Hydrogen Mission (2023): Promotes the use of green hydrogen to reduce fossil fuel dependency and cut carbon emissions.
    • Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) (2014): Provides banking access to the unbanked population, enhancing financial inclusion.
    • Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) (2018): Provides health coverage to over 500 million people, ensuring access to quality healthcare for low-income groups.
    • Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) (2005): This guarantees 100 days of wage employment per year to rural households, ensuring livelihood security.
    • Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana (2014): Focuses on skill development and employment for rural and urban poor.

    Way forward: 

    • Adopt a Balanced Development Approach: Integrate environmental sustainability with social and economic policies, ensuring that progress respects planetary boundaries while addressing socio-economic disparities. Example: Strengthen initiatives like the Green Hydrogen Mission and promote circular economy practices to reduce ecological footprints.
    • Enhance Social Equity and Human Well-being: Prioritize inclusive growth by improving access to quality healthcare, education, and employment for all, especially marginalized communities. Example: Expand programs like Ayushman Bharat and Skill India Mission to ensure equitable opportunities and better living standards.

  • [12th March 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Building compassion into the health-care structure 

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q)  Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse. (UPSC CSE 2021)

     

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure (2021) and Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention (2018).

    On February 7, 2025, the WHO released the “Compassion and Primary Health Care” report, emphasizing compassion as a transformative force in health care. Based on my interactions with medical pioneers and global advocacy efforts, including the 74th World Health Assembly, I am encouraged to see growing recognition of compassion’s vital role in improving health care worldwide.

    Today’s editorial highlights the importance of compassionate health care, offering valuable insights for GS Papers, particularly in policy-making and ethics discussions.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Compassionate health care should guide the actions of industry leaders, hospitals, and health-care organizations.

    What is the key message of the WHO report “Compassion and Primary Health Care”?

    • Compassion as a Transformative Force: The report highlights compassion as a core value in improving primary health care outcomes. Example: A cancer patient’s recovery improves significantly when doctors spend an extra 40 seconds expressing support, as found in a Johns Hopkins study.
    • Improved Patient Outcomes through Compassion: Compassionate care leads to faster recovery, shorter hospital stays, and reduced patient anxiety.Example: Stanford University’s CCARE research found that patients treated with compassion experience quicker healing and fewer complications.
    • Benefits for Health-Care Providers: Compassion reduces stress, prevents burnout, and increases job satisfaction for medical professionals. Example: Nurses who engage in compassionate care report stronger patient relationships and improved emotional well-being.
    • Distinguishing Compassion from Empathy and Sympathy: Compassion involves mindful problem-solving while maintaining emotional stability, unlike empathy, which may cause emotional fatigue. Example: A compassionate doctor can acknowledge a patient’s suffering while staying emotionally balanced to provide sustained care.
    • Global Call for Compassionate Health Systems: The report urges policymakers to integrate compassion into health systems and decision-making processes. Example: The WHO calls for training programs to equip health workers with compassionate communication skills across nations.

    Why is compassion considered beneficial for both patients and health-care providers?

    • Faster Recovery and Better Patient Outcomes: Compassionate care leads to quicker recovery, reduced pain, and shorter hospital stays for patients. Example: A Johns Hopkins study found that when doctors express solidarity (e.g., saying, “We are in this together”), patient anxiety decreases, improving their healing process.
    • Enhanced Patient Trust and Satisfaction: Patients feel heard, valued, and safe when treated with compassion, which strengthens their trust in the healthcare system. Example: Cancer patients who receive compassionate communication are more compliant with treatment and express higher satisfaction with care.
    • Reduced Stress and Burnout for Health-Care Providers: Compassion reduces emotional exhaustion and prevents burnout by fostering emotional resilience. Example: Nurses trained in compassionate care report lower stress levels and improved emotional well-being.
    • Stronger Patient-Provider Relationships: Compassion fosters deeper connections, improving communication and shared decision-making between patients and healthcare providers. Example: Physicians who practice compassionate care build long-term patient trust, leading to better health outcomes and loyalty.
    • Increased Job Satisfaction and Professional Fulfillment: Compassion enhances job satisfaction by giving healthcare providers a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Example: Doctors who engage in compassionate interactions report feeling more connected to their profession and experience greater personal reward.

    How does compassion differ from sympathy, empathy, and kindness in the context of health care?

    • Compassion: Compassion is the ability to recognize a patient’s suffering and actively take steps to alleviate it. It involves an emotional connection combined with a willingness to help. Example: A nurse notices that a terminally ill patient is in pain despite receiving standard treatment. She advocates for a change in medication to improve the patient’s comfort while offering emotional support to the family.
    • Sympathy: Sympathy is feeling sorrow or concern for someone’s suffering but without deeply sharing their emotional experience. Example: A doctor expresses condolences to a patient’s family after delivering bad news but does not necessarily feel the pain personally.
    • Empathy: Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person by mentally putting oneself in their position. Example: A physician listens to a patient with chronic pain, acknowledges the emotional toll, and adjusts treatment plans accordingly while providing reassurance.

    What are the steps taken by the government? 

    • Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): Provides free health coverage to economically vulnerable families. Example: Over 50 crore beneficiaries are eligible for ₹5 lakh annual health coverage per family for secondary and tertiary care, reducing financial burdens and ensuring accessible healthcare.
    • National Health Mission (NHM): Strengthens rural and urban healthcare infrastructure and ensures equitable healthcare access. Example: Under NHM, initiatives like Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK) provide free maternal care during pregnancy, delivery, and postnatal services, ensuring compassionate care for mothers and newborns.
    • Tele-MANAS (Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States): Provides free tele-mental health services to address rising mental health concerns. Example: Launched in 2022, this initiative provides 24/7 mental health support, helping patients access timely counseling and care, especially in rural areas.
    • Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Program (PMNDP): Provides free dialysis services to patients with chronic kidney disease. Example: More than 12 lakh dialysis sessions are provided annually across 800+ districts, reducing the financial and emotional stress on patients and their families.
    • Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs): Deliver comprehensive primary healthcare closer to communities. Example: Over 1.6 lakh HWCs have been established nationwide, offering preventive care, maternal health services, and non-communicable disease screenings, fostering compassionate and inclusive healthcare.

    Way forward: 

    • Integrate Compassion Training in Medical Education: Include structured programs to develop compassionate communication and patient-centered care skills for all healthcare professionals, ensuring empathy and emotional resilience.
    • Strengthen Policy Frameworks for Compassionate Care: Implement guidelines that prioritize compassion in healthcare delivery, with regular assessments and incentives to encourage patient-centered, humane practices across public health systems.