Mains Focus – 24th April 2025

Question

“Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyze. [10 Marks, GS Paper 2, 2021]

Answer

A Welfare State has a constitutional and moral responsibility to ensure equitable access to basic necessities such as health, education, and livelihood. Among these, a robust primary health structure is not only a tool of social justice but also a critical enabler of sustainable development, aligning with India’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Moral Imperative of a Welfare State

1. Right to Health: Article 21 of the Constitution guarantees the right to life, which has been interpreted by the judiciary to include the right to health.

2. Social Equity: Primary health care ensures that vulnerable sections, especially in rural and remote areas, have access to essential services.

3. Preventive Care: Strengthening primary health care helps prevent disease outbreaks, reducing the burden on tertiary care and government expenditure.
   

Primary Health and Sustainable Development

1. SDG Alignment:
   • SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Directly targets universal health coverage and access to essential services.

   • SDG 1 & 10: Prevents health-related poverty by reducing out-of-pocket expenses through accessible public health services.

2. Economic Growth:
   • Healthy populations are more productive, reducing absenteeism and increasing national income.

   • Reduces economic shocks to poor households, ensuring inclusive growth.

3. Environmental Sustainability:
   • Decentralized health centers reduce carbon footprints by minimizing the need for long-distance travel to urban hospitals.

Challenges in India’s Primary Health Structure

• Inadequate infrastructure and manpower in rural PHCs.

• Urban-rural divide and lack of integration with wellness and nutrition services.

Conclusion

Thus, primary healthcare is not only a reflection of a state’s compassion but a cornerstone of sustainable development. Strengthening it ensures social justice, economic productivity, and long-term ecological balance—truly fulfilling the vision of a Welfare State.

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