In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system the Indian State should play a vital role to contain the adverse impact of marketisation of the system. Suggest some measures through which the State can enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level.

• M.K. Gandhi

India's health indicators depict a dismal picture:

As per UNDP, India has the maximum number of malnourished children, despite being the largest producer of grains, millets, milk.

The poor health, despite having Right to Health - through art 47, (the DPSP obliging state to ensure health of all), is due to →

(1) lack of doctors - India has 1:1600 ratio of doctor:population while WHO recommends 1:1000. (2) lack of infrastructure: India has beds in 2:1000, while WHO recommends 3:1000. (3) excessive focus on wheat & rice, poor diversification of diet. (4) poverty is the major factor - India has 230 million under poverty preventing accessibility & affordability of nutritious food as well as medical treatments. (5) Huge out of pocket expenditure ≈ over 50%, disproportionally affecting poor. (6) lack of government expenditure on healthcare = 1.5% as against 3% target.

Hence, given the reasons above, mere statutory framework alone can't ameliorate situation. Instead we need →

(1) emphasis on 'NUTRITIONS WONDER' = SHRI-ANNA, the millets & Ragi Dose

(2) proper implementation of schemes like → → POSHAN Abhiyan. → Ayushmann Bharat. → PM Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana.

(3) Innovative approach towards health → PROJECT SAMPOORNA in Bongaigaon, Assam by IAS Laxmi - creating Buddy Mothers.

(4) Ladakh model of compulsory service of doctors and Delhi's Mohalla Clinics can be replicated.

(5) focus on ONE HEALTH of all as well as Mental Health.

(6) focus on WASH - Sanitation & Hygiene