Do little enclaves of Indian culture exist across the country? Give specific instances to support your points.(250 words) [UPSC 2019]
Model Answer Introduction In India, suicide has become the leading cause of death among individuals aged 15-29, with the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reporting 164,033 suicides in 2021, a 7.2% increase from the previous year. Reasons for Rising Suicides Family Problems: Family issues accountRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
In India, suicide has become the leading cause of death among individuals aged 15-29, with the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reporting 164,033 suicides in 2021, a 7.2% increase from the previous year.
Reasons for Rising Suicides
- Family Problems: Family issues account for nearly one-third of all suicide cases. Changing family structures and a lack of communication lead to insecurity and emotional distress among individuals.
- Economic and Professional Discontent: A significant factor is dissatisfaction with professional status and economic conditions. The Health Ministry notes that 63.3% of suicides occur among individuals earning less than Rs. 1 lakh per annum, indicating financial strain leads to despair.
- Illness: Lack of access to medical care and treatment for life-threatening diseases contributes to feelings of hopelessness. Mental health conditions, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, also play a critical role.
- Unemployment: With an unemployment rate of around 8%, many young individuals face pressure and depression, leading to suicidal thoughts.
- Substance Abuse: According to the National Mental Health Survey (2015-16), over 22% of adults in India suffer from substance use disorders, significantly increasing the risk of suicide.
National Suicide Prevention Strategy
Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched the National Suicide Prevention Strategy, aiming to reduce suicide mortality by 10% by 2030. Key focus areas include:
- Surveillance Mechanisms: Establishing effective surveillance for suicide within three years through enhanced leadership and partnerships.
- Psychiatric Services: Implementing psychiatric outpatient departments in all districts within five years to provide suicide prevention services.
- Mental Well-Being Curriculum: Integrating mental health education in schools over the next eight years to foster community resilience and societal support.
- Reducing Access to Means: Phasing out hazardous pesticides to limit means of suicide.
- Stigma Reduction: Creating guidelines for media to report responsibly on suicides, addressing the stigma that hinders individuals from seeking help.
- Data Collection: Strengthening data collection on suicides and attempts to better inform prevention strategies.
Conclusion
The successful implementation of this strategy requires sustained commitment from both central and state governments, aiming to inspire hope and create a supportive environment for mental health.
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Cultural Pockets of ‘Small India’ Across the Nation Introduction India is a land of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. Despite regional variations, the presence of cultural pockets of 'small India' across the nation reflects the country’s unity in diversity. These pockets symbolize a blendRead more
Cultural Pockets of ‘Small India’ Across the Nation
Introduction
India is a land of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. Despite regional variations, the presence of cultural pockets of ‘small India’ across the nation reflects the country’s unity in diversity. These pockets symbolize a blend of cultural practices, where people from different backgrounds co-exist and celebrate India’s pluralism.
Examples of Cultural Pockets
Conclusion
See lessThese cultural pockets reflect India’s spirit of unity in diversity, where different cultural practices, languages, and traditions coexist harmoniously. Such regions represent miniature versions of India and highlight the inclusive and pluralistic nature of Indian society.