The critical reason for poor public health indicators in India goes beyond recognition of right to health as fundamental right. Do you think that a statutory framework alone can ameliorate the situation?

s

• Children:
  • Stunting 35%
  • Wasting 19%
  • (NFHS-5)
• Women:
  • Anaemia,
  • period poverty,
  • MMR at 113
  • (above 70 target)
• Other:
  • High out of
  • pocket
  • expenditure
  • (60-70%)

Benefits of statutory recognition to right to health: (1) Accountablity of State would increase: who currently spends only (1.7%) (state

and centre) despite target of 3%.

(2) Judicial remedy for those citizens who could not avail the welfare.

(3) Force state to invest in health infrastructure in balanced manner (e.g: Rural & Urban bias bridged)

(4) Greater awareness about right of health can usher socio-economic justice.

(5) Legal premise for "Universal Health Coverage" (SDG 3)

(6) Prevent poverty due to high expenditure &

become a tool to realise demographic dividend

through focused and targetted approach.

(7) Achievement of DPSP directive under Article 47 = step to promote well being.

However alone will be → clogs the already burdened judiciary

→ Lack of will and resources cause

a hurdle rather than law.

→ Deviation of focus of executive from welfare to legality.

Rather measures also needed :- (1) Promotion of preventive health : though lifestyle changes like YOGA, Balanced diet. (2) Governance reforms : to tackle leakages of funds (eg:- lakhs of PM-JAY with a same number as per CAG Report. (3) Reforming the primary health care : to tackle issues at early stage (Cuban Polyclinic). (4) Boosting R&D in medical field.