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150 Words10 Marks
Q.Besides being a moral imperative of Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary pre-condition for sustainable development.” Analyze.
UPSC Mains 2021•Governance
Model Answer
View this Question In PYQ RealmIntroduction
A welfare state is duty-bound to ensure accessible and affordable healthcare for all citizens. Primary healthcare, acting as the first line of defense at the grassroots level, is not only a moral obligation but also an indispensable prerequisite for sustainable development, directly influencing economic productivity, poverty reduction, and societal well-being.
Body
Primary Healthcare as a Moral Imperative of a Welfare State
- Ensures Health as a Fundamental Right: Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to life, which encompasses basic healthcare.
- Example: The Ayushman Bharat Scheme provides free health coverage to economically vulnerable sections.
- Reduces Socio-Economic Inequality: A robust primary healthcare system democratizes medical access, reducing disparities between the privileged and underprivileged.
- Example: The National Health Mission (NHM) has significantly improved maternal and child healthcare in rural India.
- Prevents Disease Burden and Improves Life Expectancy: Early diagnosis and preventive care lower mortality rates and enhance the overall quality of life.
- Example: India's successful polio eradication was driven primarily by grassroots health interventions.
Primary Healthcare as a Precondition for Sustainable Development
- Enhances Workforce Productivity and Economic Growth: A healthy population reduces absenteeism and boosts economic output.
- Example: Countries with strong primary healthcare systems (like Scandinavian nations) consistently rank high on the Human Development Index (HDI).
- Reduces Healthcare Expenditure: Investing in preventive care alleviates the burden on secondary and tertiary hospitals, lowering out-of-pocket expenses.
- Example: Thailand's Universal Health Coverage (UHC) model has significantly enhanced economic resilience by reducing medical expenses.
- Strengthens Resilience Against Pandemics and Climate Change: A robust primary health network is vital for managing public health crises.
- Example: Nations with strong primary healthcare, such as South Korea, managed the COVID-19 pandemic far more effectively.
- Supports SDG Goals and Inclusive Growth: UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) forms the bedrock of sustainable development.
- Example: Ayushman Bharat's Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) aim to deliver universal health coverage.
Conclusion
Primary healthcare is both a moral duty of a welfare state and a cornerstone of sustainable development. Strengthening grassroots health infrastructure, emphasizing preventive care, and ensuring universal access are vital for achieving long-term economic prosperity and social equity.
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