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Subject: Social Justice

  • A step up: On India and the 2025 Human Development Report

    Why in the News?

    India ranks 130th out of 193 countries in the 2025 Human Development Index (HDI), up from 133rd in 2022.

    What is the Human Development Index (HDI)?

    The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite statistic developed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

    • Composite Measure of Development: The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite index that measures a country’s overall development based on three key factors: life expectancy (health), education (mean and expected years of schooling), and standard of living (GNI per capita).
    • Ranking and Insights: HDI ranks countries on a scale from 0 to 1, where a higher value indicates better human development.

    Why has India’s HDI improved?

    • Health (Life Expectancy at Birth): HDI measures the average number of years a person can expect to live, reflecting the overall health conditions in a country. Eg: In 2023, India’s life expectancy increased to 72 years, marking a significant improvement since 1990, when it was just 58.6 years.
    • Education (Mean Years of Schooling and Expected Years of Schooling): HDI considers the average number of years adults aged 25 and older have spent in school (mean years of schooling) and the number of years a child of school-entry age can expect to receive (expected years of schooling). Eg: In 2023, children in India are expected to stay in school for 13 years on average, up from 8.2 years in 1990.
    • Standard of Living (Gross National Income per Capita): HDI includes the per capita income adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP), which gives a sense of the country’s economic prosperity and standard of living. Eg: India’s GNI per capita increased from $2,167 in 1990 to $9,046 in 2023, reflecting a growth in economic well-being.
    • Inequality Adjustments: HDI adjusts for inequality in each of its three dimensions—health, education, and standard of living—through the Inequality-adjusted HDI (IHDI). The more inequality there is in a country, the lower the adjusted HDI score will be. Eg: India’s HDI value of 0.685 in 2023 was influenced by inequalities, including gender and income disparities, which the report highlighted as a key challenge.
    • Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI): HDI is indirectly linked to the MPI, which measures poverty beyond income, including deprivations in health, education, and living standards. Eg: India has made significant progress in reducing multidimensional poverty, with 13.5 crore people escaping poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21.

    How has the pandemic affected India’s HDI recovery?

    • Health Impact: The pandemic strained India’s healthcare system, leading to higher mortality rates and disruptions in healthcare services, which affected life expectancy. Eg: The pandemic slowed India’s progress towards improving life expectancy, though it rebounded in the subsequent years, reaching 72 years in 2023.
    • Education Disruptions: School closures and lack of access to online education hindered educational outcomes, especially for underprivileged children. Eg: While the expected years of schooling improved, the pandemic delayed educational progress, particularly in rural areas.
    • Economic Setbacks: The lockdowns and economic disruptions due to the pandemic led to a sharp contraction in economic activities, affecting income levels and jobs, particularly in the informal sector. Eg: India’s GNI per capita growth faced a slowdown, though it eventually rebounded, reaching $9,046 in 2023.

    What challenges remain in improving India’s HDI?

    • Income Inequality: Despite progress, income disparity remains a major challenge, with the rich benefiting disproportionately from economic growth, while the poor remain marginalized. Eg: India’s HDI is impacted by a 30.7% loss due to income inequalities, which continues to drag down overall development outcomes.
    • Gender Disparities: The gender gap in labor force participation and political representation limits progress in improving India’s HDI. Women’s workforce participation remains low, and the gender wage gap is significant. Eg: The female labor participation rate stood at 41.7% in 2023-24, but a supportive ecosystem for women’s work retention and political representation is still lacking.

    How can India use AI to address development while avoiding inequality? (Way forward)

    • AI in Public Service Delivery: AI can streamline public services, making them more efficient, transparent, and accessible, especially to marginalized communities. Eg: AI-driven systems can help in targeted welfare distribution, ensuring resources like food and healthcare reach those most in need, reducing administrative inefficiencies.
    • Inclusive Education and Skill Development: Leveraging AI for personalized learning can bridge gaps in educational access and quality, particularly for underserved areas. Eg: AI-based platforms like Byju’s and other ed-tech initiatives provide tailored education, improving learning outcomes for students in rural and remote areas.
    • AI for Job Creation and Economic Inclusion: AI can be used to create new job opportunities and enhance existing ones, especially in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing. Ensuring that AI adoption leads to inclusive economic growth can help reduce inequality. Eg: AI-driven agricultural technologies can optimize crop yields and provide real-time data to farmers, increasing productivity and income, especially for those in rural areas.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2019] Despite Consistent experience of High growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive.

    Linkage: The paradox of economic growth not translating into high human development indicators, which is a central theme when discussing India’s HDI rank and the challenges despite improvements. It also touches upon inclusive development, another concept related to the HDR’s focus on reducing inequalities

  • Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE) Scheme

    Why in the News?

    Under the SMILE scheme, the Union Social Justice Ministry has identified only 9,958 beggars across 81 cities, compared to 3.72 lakh recorded in the 2011 Census.

    About the SMILE Scheme:  

    • The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched the SMILE scheme in 2022.
    • It is a Central Sector Scheme to rehabilitate individuals engaged in begging and empower transgender persons.
    • It focuses on rehabilitation, livelihood opportunities, skill development, and social empowerment for marginalized individuals.
    • It combines previous programs targeting beggars and transgender persons, providing a more cohesive approach to their empowerment.
    • Key Components:
      • Shelter Homes: Utilizes existing shelter homes managed by state/UT governments; new homes will be established where necessary.
      • Livelihood Support: Provides education, documentation, skill development, and economic linkages to help individuals become self-sufficient.
      • Target Beneficiaries: Around 60,000 marginalized individuals.
    • Implementation:
      • Pilot project has been launched in 30 cities (Phase 1) and extended to 50 more cities (Phase 2).
      • A local survey identifies individuals engaged in begging, aiming to rehabilitate 25 individuals per survey.
      • ₹100 crore has been allocated for FY 2023-24 to 2025-26, with ₹14.71 crore spent by December 2024 on identification and rehabilitation.

    Issues in Implementation:

    • Inadequate Shelter Infrastructure: Some regions face a lack of facilities for rehabilitation.
    • Resistance to Rehabilitation: Some individuals resist rehabilitation due to socio-economic factors or distrust in government schemes.
    • Funding and Resource Constraints: Ongoing financial investment is required for sustainability.
    • Sustainability of Rehabilitation: Long-term support is essential for successful reintegration into society.
    [UPSC 2016] ‘Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan’ is a national campaign to-

    (a) rehabilitate the homeless and destitute persons and provide them with suitable sources of livelihood*

    (b) abolish the Child Labour

    (c) salvage the marshy lands and wetlands in the coastal areas and cultivate crops in them

    (d) rehabilitate the manual scavengers and provide them with suitable sources of livelihood

     

  • [26th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Teaching children to eat well must begin in school

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2022] The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains inadequate in promoting incentive-based system for children’s education without generating awareness about the importance of schooling. Analyse.

    Linkage: Teaching children about food and nutrition in schools can help them learn healthy eating habits early on. This supports the idea that education should go beyond just books and include lessons that improve their overall well-being.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  At the Paris Nutrition for Growth Summit, the UNGA extended the Decade of Action on Nutrition to 2030, aiming to align with the SDGs and sustain global efforts to end malnutrition. This marks a crucial shift from merely food access to understanding eating behaviours, especially in children, linking nutrition with health, education, equity, and environmental sustainability

    Today’s editorial examines the extension of the United Nations Decade of Action on Nutrition to 2030, offering valuable insights relevant to GS Paper 2 (Health and Education) in the UPSC Mains.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Food knowledge is now a necessity; we need to move beyond simply giving children food to also teaching them how to eat healthy.

    What is the significance of extending the United Nations Decade of Action on Nutrition to 2030?

    • Continued Global Focus on Ending Malnutrition: The extension ensures that efforts to end malnutrition—in all its forms—remain a priority on the global agenda. The original timeframe (2016-2025) was extended to maintain momentum in addressing undernutrition, obesity, and micronutrient deficiencies. Eg: It helps further the work initiated through the Global Nutrition Targets (World Health Organization), such as reducing childhood stunting and addressing maternal anemia, which are key components of the Decade of Action.
    • Aligning Nutrition Efforts with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): The extension ensures better alignment with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG 2: End hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. Eg: This could strengthen efforts to integrate nutrition into food security policies, such as promoting sustainable farming practices that support both nutrition and the environment.
    • Promoting Dietary Diversity and Healthy Eating: The Decade’s extension emphasizes the need for better education on dietary diversity and healthy eating habits. This shift is especially important in light of rising levels of obesity and diet-related diseases worldwide. Eg: Encouraging bio-diverse diets that include locally grown, seasonal foods to promote better health and reduce environmental impacts from food production.
    • Addressing the Growing Challenge of Overweight and Obesity: The extension allows for a more comprehensive response to the growing global challenge of overweight and obesity, particularly in children and adolescents, which leads to chronic diseases like diabetes and heart conditions. Eg: Policies supporting school nutrition programs and marketing restrictions on unhealthy food can be strengthened, as seen in countries like Mexico, which has implemented clear labeling for unhealthy foods.
    • Enabling Improved Food Systems and Environmental Sustainability: The extension of the Decade is a chance to transform food systems to be more inclusive, sustainable, and nutrition-sensitive. Eg: The Food Systems Summit and its alignment with the Decade’s goals will encourage the adoption of sustainable food production practices.

    Why is it important to focus on the next 4,000 days of a child’s life, beyond the first 1,000 days?

    • Critical Period for Adolescents’ Growth and Development: The period from 2 to 18 years is when children experience rapid physical, emotional, and behavioral changes. This phase is crucial for addressing any nutritional deficits from the first 1,000 days and ensuring proper growth. Eg: Adequate nutrition during adolescence helps children catch up on growth and reduces the risk of stunting, which can impact long-term health and development.
    • Preventing Long-Term Health Issues: Nutrition during the next 4,000 days plays a key role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease that can develop due to poor dietary habits. Eg: If adolescents are provided with proper nutrition and healthy eating habits, they are less likely to develop obesity-related issues in adulthood, as shown by long-term studies on childhood obesity prevention.
    • Building Healthy Habits for Life: The nutritional choices children make during their adolescent years influence their lifelong eating patterns. Teaching children to make healthy choices during this period sets the foundation for their future eating habits. Eg: Education on balanced diets and the importance of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains in school programs can help prevent future generations from falling into unhealthy eating patterns.
    • Cognitive and Emotional Development: Proper nutrition during these years supports not only physical growth but also cognitive and emotional development. Nutritional deficiencies can impair brain function and emotional well-being, leading to issues in learning, concentration, and mental health. Eg: Nutrients like iron and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain development. Schools providing meals rich in these nutrients see improved cognitive performance and better emotional resilience among students.
    • Addressing Gender Inequality and Social Impact: Adequate nutrition in adolescence, especially for girls, can help break the cycle of poverty and malnutrition by empowering them to reach their full potential, contributing to both personal well-being and community development. Eg: Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) program in India that targets young girls’ education and nutrition to improve their future roles in society.

    Where can children best be taught to build healthy eating habits? 

    • Schools: Schools are ideal places to teach children healthy eating habits, as they can reach a large number of children and provide structured education on nutrition. School-based programs can include lessons on food choices, meal planning, and the importance of a balanced diet. Eg: In countries like Finland, students are taught about food, nutrition, and the environmental impact of food choices from a young age, with healthy meals provided in school canteens.
    • Home and Family: Parents play a crucial role in shaping children’s eating habits, as they control the food environment at home. Teaching children to make healthy food choices can begin in the kitchen, with parents modeling healthy behaviors and involving children in meal preparation. Eg: Families that cook together tend to make healthier food choices, as seen in research by the American Dietetic Association, where children who participate in preparing meals are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables.
    • Community Programs and Initiatives: Local community centers and health programs can offer opportunities for children to learn about nutrition outside the school environment. These programs often provide workshops, cooking classes, and activities that teach children how to make healthy choices in a fun, engaging way. Eg: The “Veggie Van” initiative in the U.S. brings fresh produce and nutrition education to underserved communities, helping children learn healthy eating habits in a community-based setting.
    • Public Health Campaigns: Public health campaigns, through media and outreach programs, can educate children on the importance of nutrition. Campaigns targeting children through TV, social media, and even mobile apps can reinforce healthy eating habits at an early age. Eg: The “Change4Life” campaign in the UK targets families and children with educational content about healthy eating and physical activity, encouraging healthy habits through accessible and relatable messaging.

    What are the steps taken by Indian Government?

    • National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: The NEP 2020 emphasizes integrating nutrition and health education into the school curriculum. It encourages schools to include aspects of nutrition, healthy eating, and sustainable food practices in their teaching.  
    • School Health and Wellness Programme (SHWP): This program, launched by the Ministry of Education, aims to improve the overall well-being of children through health and nutrition awareness campaigns, including healthy eating practices, physical activity, and mental health support.  
    • Mid-Day Meal Scheme: This scheme is aimed at improving the nutritional status of children in government and government-aided schools by providing them with free nutritious meals during school hours. The government ensures that the meals meet dietary standards, focusing on providing balanced nutrition.  
    • Poshan Abhiyaan (National Nutrition Mission): Launched in 2018, Poshan Abhiyaan aims to reduce malnutrition, stunting, and anemia among children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. The initiative includes awareness campaigns, community-based nutrition interventions, and regular monitoring of children’s health. Eg: Under Poshan Abhiyaan, the government has introduced the ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) platform for tracking the health and nutrition of children, which helps in better delivery of nutrition services.
    • Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Initiatives: FSSAI has launched programs like “Eat Right India” to educate citizens, including children, about healthy eating habits. This initiative aims to promote balanced diets, food safety, and sustainable eating practices in schools and communities.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Community-Based Nutrition Programs: Strengthen local initiatives and integrate nutrition education into community centers, schools, and healthcare systems to ensure wider access to information and healthier food choices.
    • Increase Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage collaboration between the government, private sector, and NGOs to innovate in food production, distribution, and education, ensuring sustainable and nutritious food options are accessible to all.

  • Section 19 of the POCSO Act, 2012

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a petition regarding the mandatory reporting of sexual activity under Section 19 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.

    About the POCSO Act, 2012:

    • The POCSO Act came into effect on November 14, 2012 (Children’s Day), following India’s ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1992.
    • Its primary objective is to address offences related to the sexual exploitation and abuse of children, which were previously either not specifically defined or inadequately penalized.
    • According to the Act, a child is defined as any person below the age of 18 years.
    • In 2019, the Act underwent a review and amendment, introducing more stringent punishments (after Nirbhaya Case), including the death penalty, for those committing sexual crimes against children.

    Key Features of the POCSO Act:

    • Definition of a Child: A child is defined as anyone under 18 years of age.
    • Sexual Offences:
      • Penetrative Sexual Assault (Section 3)
      • Sexual Assault (Section 7)
      • Sexual Harassment (Section 11)
      • Using Children for Pornographic Purposes (Section 13)
      • Abetment and Attempt (Sections 16-18)
    • Special Courts & Procedures: Establishes Special Courts for speedy trials and mandates child-friendly procedures.
    • Protection of Identity: The identity of the child is protected throughout the process.
    • Rehabilitation & Compensation: Provides for the rehabilitation of child victims.
    • No Delay in Trials: Trials must be completed within one year of the offence.

    Recent Supreme Court Hearing:

    • Litigants have raised concerns that mandatory reporting under Section 19 might criminalize consensual sexual activity between juveniles, especially affecting adolescent girls’ right to health.
    • They emphasized counseling over criminalization, arguing that the law might discourage adolescents from seeking medical care.
    • The Supreme Court acknowledged these concerns and scheduled a detailed hearing on May 8 to address them.
    [UPSC 2017] Which of the following are envisaged by the Right against Exploitation in the Constitution of India?

    1. Prohibition of traffic in human beings and forced labour

    2. Abolition of untouchability

    3. Protection of the interests of minorities

    4. Prohibition of employment of children in factories and mines.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

     

  • Making primary health visible, offering accessible and affordable health care

    Why in the News?

    Public health has evolved with the growing economy and modern lifestyles. Key challenges include antimicrobial resistance, chronic diseases, zoonotic diseases, and mental health, with NCDs making up 60% of global deaths.

    What are the key modern public health challenges faced globally, and how do they impact India?

    • Rise of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): NCDs like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer account for over 60% of global deaths and are projected to rise by 17% in the next decade. India faces a dual burden of NCDs and infectious diseases. Eg: As per National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), over 20% of Indian adults suffer from high blood pressure.
    • Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Misuse of antibiotics in humans and livestock has led to drug-resistant infections, making common illnesses harder to treat. India is one of the largest consumers of antibiotics, and AMR increases mortality rates and healthcare costs. Eg: A 2019 ICMR report showed a rise in resistance to last-resort antibiotics like colistin in Indian hospitals.
    • Mental Health Crisis: Stress, urbanization, and socio-economic pressures are driving a rise in mental health illnesses, yet policymakers and health systems continue to under-address them. India has a high treatment gap — about 80% of people with mental illness do not receive treatment due to stigma and lack of resources. Eg: WHO estimates that India loses nearly $1 trillion in productivity annually due to mental health issues.

    How does the ‘Ayushman Bharat’ scheme aim to strengthen India’s public health system?

    • Financial Protection through PM-JAY: The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) offers ₹5 lakh health insurance coverage per family per year to poor and vulnerable populations. It reduces the financial burden of hospitalization and protects against catastrophic health expenditure. Eg: A BPL family needing heart surgery under PM-JAY can avail treatment in empanelled hospitals without paying out-of-pocket.
    • Strengthening Primary Healthcare via Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs): These upgraded Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) provide comprehensive care, including preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative services, close to communities. Eg: A rural health centre now screens for diabetes, mental health, and cancers under the AAM model, increasing early detection and timely treatment.
    • Infrastructure Development through PM-ABHIM: The Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) improves health system preparedness by investing in labs, critical care units, and public health surveillance systems. Eg: District hospitals are being upgraded with ICU beds and disease monitoring labs under PM-ABHIM, boosting emergency response and pandemic readiness.

    What are the reasons behind the lack of trust in India’s public health system?

    • Poor User Experience and Service Quality: Long wait times, overcrowding, and inadequate attention from healthcare staff often lead to patient dissatisfaction and erode trust in public facilities. Eg: Patients at many government hospitals report delays in receiving treatment due to staff shortages and administrative inefficiencies.
    • Inconsistent Infrastructure and Cleanliness: Lack of clean facilities, essential medicines, and functional equipment in some centers diminishes public confidence in receiving quality care. Eg: A 2022 Health Ministry survey found that several PHCs in remote areas lacked basic amenities like running water and power backup.
    • Stigma and Miscommunication in Care Delivery: Lack of sensitivity among staff, especially in mental health and maternal care, coupled with poor communication, creates a sense of neglect or discrimination. Eg: Many rural women avoid public health centers for childbirth due to past experiences of rude treatment or neglect by staff.

    How does the quality and accessibility of private healthcare in India compare to the public sector?

    • Better Infrastructure and Perceived Quality in Private Sector: Private hospitals often offer cleaner facilities, modern equipment, and shorter wait times, making them the preferred choice for many. Eg: Urban patients may choose a private multispecialty hospital over a government facility due to advanced diagnostic tools and faster service.
    • Higher Costs and Risk of Catastrophic Expenditure: While private healthcare ensures timely treatment, it comes at a high cost, which can push middle- and low-income families into debt. Eg: A cancer patient undergoing chemotherapy in a private hospital may face bills in lakhs, unlike subsidized or free treatment in public hospitals under schemes like PM-JAY.
    • Limited Accessibility for Rural and Poor Populations: Private hospitals are concentrated in urban areas and are often unaffordable for rural or economically weaker sections, widening the healthcare gap. Eg: A villager may have to travel over 50 km to access private healthcare, while a nearby government PHC is under-equipped or understaffed.

    What is the role of National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) in enhancing public health services in India?

    • Improves Service Delivery and Patient Care: NQAS ensures that healthcare facilities follow standardized procedures, improving the quality, safety, and effectiveness of care provided. Eg: A district hospital certified under NQAS follows set protocols for infection control and patient safety, reducing the chances of hospital-acquired infections.
    • Builds Accountability and Performance Monitoring: Facilities are regularly assessed on key quality indicators, encouraging a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Eg: A Primary Health Centre (PHC) striving for NQAS certification upgrades its infrastructure and staff training to meet quality benchmarks.
    • Enhances Public Trust in Government Facilities: By aligning public health facilities with global standards like ISQua, NQAS boosts confidence among patients to seek care from government institutions. Eg: An NQAS-certified Community Health Centre (CHC) attracts more patients due to its improved cleanliness, better staff behaviour, and reliable service delivery.

    Way forward: 

    • Invest in Quality and Infrastructure: Strengthen public health facilities with adequate staff, modern equipment, and essential supplies to ensure reliable, high-quality care across rural and urban areas.
    • Promote Awareness and Trust: Launch community-based health education campaigns and feedback mechanisms to reduce stigma, improve service perception, and increase public trust in government healthcare systems.

    Mains PYQ:

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

    Linkage: The importance of a strong primary health structure, which is fundamental to making healthcare accessible and achieving broader development goals.

  • Beware of child traffickers, Supreme Court cautions parents

    Why in the News?

    Recently, the Supreme Court said that hospitals will lose their licences if newborn babies go missing. It also directed High Courts to make sure all pending child trafficking case trials are finished within six months.

    What did the Supreme Court warn parents about regarding child trafficking?

    • Vigilance Against Child Trafficking: The Supreme Court warned parents to be “extremely vigilant” to protect their children from trafficking for purposes such as sexual exploitation, forced labour, and begging. A slight negligence or carelessness could lead to severe consequences.
    • Consequences of Negligence: The court highlighted that the pain parents experience when losing a child to trafficking is different and more agonising than the loss of a child due to death. The court emphasised that negligence could lead to the lifetime agony of not knowing the whereabouts or fate of the child.
    • Exploitation of Poor and Vulnerable Families: The court pointed out that traffickers often prey on families from poor sections of society, exploiting their helplessness. This issue is compounded by well-organized trafficking networks that use technology to track victims.

    Why does the court believe child trafficking for forced crime is on the rise?

    • Exploitation of Juvenile Justice Laws: Criminal gangs exploit the legal protection offered to minors under the Juvenile Justice (JJ) Act, using trafficked children for illegal activities like theft, drug peddling, and begging, knowing the penalties are lenient. Eg: According to NCRB 2022, over 5,000 children were apprehended for petty crimes, many suspected to be victims of trafficking and coercion by organized gangs who remain untouched by law.
    • Demand-Supply Gap in Adoption System: Long waiting periods and a complex legal framework for adoption in India create a black market for child adoption, encouraging trafficking. Eg: As per Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA), while more than 29,000 parents were registered for adoption in 2023, only 3,596 adoptions took place—leading to illegal demand and fueling child trafficking networks.
    • Weak State Response and Enforcement: The court criticized state governments like Uttar Pradesh for lack of seriousness in tracking trafficking cases and failing to appeal against bail orders granted to traffickers. Eg: In the case heard, 13 accused granted bail by the Allahabad High Court absconded, and their whereabouts remained unknown for months, showing systemic gaps in enforcement.

    How did the Supreme Court respond to the bail granted by the Allahabad High Court in the child trafficking case?

    • Criticized the High Court’s Decision as Callous: The Supreme Court strongly condemned the Allahabad High Court’s decision to grant bail, calling it “very callous” and insensitive given the gravity of the crime. Eg: The bail allowed 13 accused in an inter-State child trafficking racket to go free, most of whom later absconded, frustrating the investigation.
    • Cancelled the Bail of the Accused: The apex court revoked the bail orders and directed that the accused be taken into custody without delay. Eg: The accused included a nurse at a primary health centre in Chhattisgarh who played a key role in illegal infant sales under the guise of adoption.
    • Ordered Speedy Trial: The court directed that the trial be completed within six months to ensure justice is not delayed. Eg: This was aimed at avoiding procedural delays and ensuring accountability in crimes involving vulnerable children.

    What actions did the Supreme Court direct hospitals to take in cases of missing newborns?

    • Ensure Complete Protection of Newborns: Hospitals must take full responsibility to safeguard infants immediately after birth, ensuring no unauthorized person can access them. Eg: If a newborn goes missing from a maternity ward, the hospital administration will be held accountable for negligence.
    • Strict Monitoring and Accountability Measures: Hospitals were warned that if newborns are found trafficked, they could face suspension of license and legal action. Eg: A nurse involved in an infant trafficking racket from a Primary Health Centre in Chhattisgarh was among the accused in the case.
    • Implement Protocols for Birth and Discharge: The court emphasized the need for strict procedures during childbirth and discharge, including documentation and identity verification. Eg: Hospitals must verify the identity of guardians or parents before handing over the baby, to prevent impersonation or baby-swapping.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Surveillance and Inter-agency Coordination: Establish a centralized digital monitoring system linking hospitals, child welfare committees, and law enforcement to track births, adoptions, and missing children in real time.
    • Community Awareness and Legal Safeguards: Launch nationwide awareness campaigns on child trafficking risks and ensure strict enforcement of child protection laws with fast-track courts for trafficking cases.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2023] Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer.

    Linkage: Child victims of trafficking are undoubtedly among the most vulnerable. This PYQ examines the nature of welfare schemes for vulnerable populations, which is relevant to the effectiveness of state interventions aimed at preventing child trafficking and rescuing victims.

  • 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

     

  • 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.

  • 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.

     

  • [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.