Examine how the media shapes public perception and social movements in India.
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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The media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and social movements in India, acting as both a platform for expression and a catalyst for change. Here’s an analysis of its influence: 1. Information Dissemination Awareness Raising: Media outlets, including print, television, and digital plaRead more
The media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and social movements in India, acting as both a platform for expression and a catalyst for change. Here’s an analysis of its influence:
1. Information Dissemination
2. Amplifying Voices
3. Mobilization and Organization
4. Shaping Narratives
5. Influence of Social Media
6. Accountability and Advocacy
7. Impact of Celebrity Culture
8. Challenges and Limitations
9. Censorship and Control
Conclusion
The media in India significantly influences public opinion and social movements, serving as a powerful tool for awareness, mobilization, and advocacy. While it offers opportunities for marginalized voices and fosters accountability, challenges such as misinformation, bias, and censorship remain critical issues. A robust and independent media landscape is essential for a healthy democracy, enabling informed public discourse and effective social change.
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