Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Context Setting Introduce the typical economic progression of countries: agriculture → industry → services. Mention India’s unique shift directly from agriculture to services, referred to as “premature deindustrialization.” Thesis Statement State the focus of the response: to explore reasons for the ...
Model Answer Rising Concerns About E-Pharmacies in India Despite the Indian government's promotion of digital health initiatives like the National Digital Health Mission and eSanjeevani, concerns surrounding e-pharmacies are escalating. This contradiction stems from several critical issues. ReasonsRead more
Model Answer
Rising Concerns About E-Pharmacies in India
Despite the Indian government’s promotion of digital health initiatives like the National Digital Health Mission and eSanjeevani, concerns surrounding e-pharmacies are escalating. This contradiction stems from several critical issues.
Reasons for Concern
- Drug Abuse: E-pharmacies facilitate the potential for prescription misuse. A single prescription can be repeatedly uploaded, increasing the likelihood of abuse, particularly for drugs categorized under Schedule H and X, which require valid prescriptions (Ministry of Health and Family Welfare).
- Skewed Supply: E-pharmacy services are predominantly urban-focused, leaving rural areas underserved. This disparity in access exacerbates health inequities across the country (Economic Times).
- Threat to Offline Stores: The rise of online pharmacies poses a significant threat to traditional brick-and-mortar stores, jeopardizing their survival in an increasingly digital marketplace (Business Standard).
- Lack of Regulation: Current regulations for e-pharmacies are inadequate, relying mainly on the Draft Rules pending approval. The absence of a robust regulatory framework leaves significant gaps in consumer protection (Pharmacy Council of India).
- Privacy Issues: Concerns over medical privacy are heightened with the online transaction of drugs, risking the exposure of sensitive patient information (Hindustan Times).
- Substandard Medicines: There are persistent worries about the sale of counterfeit and substandard medications through online platforms (India Today).
Suggested Steps to Address Issues
- Regulatory Mechanism: Establish a clear regulatory framework defining e-pharmacy, amending existing laws like the Pharmacy Act, 1948 (Pharmacy Council of India).
- FDI Guidelines: Clear distinctions between investments in the trading and pharmaceutical sectors are essential to ensure proper oversight (Ministry of Commerce).
- Mandatory Barcoding: Implementing barcoding for online drug distribution would enhance transparency and accuracy in tracking (Ministry of Health).
- Nationwide Electronic Health Records: Integrating health data can help mitigate privacy concerns while tracking prescription histories effectively (National Digital Health Mission).
- E-Prescriptions: Adopting e-prescriptions, as seen in the USA, could reduce prescription misuse and streamline the ordering process (American Medical Association).
By addressing these concerns, the Indian government can foster a safe and effective e-pharmacy sector that enhances medicine accessibility while protecting consumers.
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Model Answer Introduction Typically, countries transition from agriculture to industry before moving to services. However, India has experienced a direct shift from agriculture to services, a phenomenon referred to as "premature deindustrialization." This shift raises questions about the reasons behRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Typically, countries transition from agriculture to industry before moving to services. However, India has experienced a direct shift from agriculture to services, a phenomenon referred to as “premature deindustrialization.” This shift raises questions about the reasons behind the robust growth of the services sector and whether India can achieve developed status without a strong industrial base.
Reasons for Growth of Services vs. Industry
Can India Become a Developed Country Without a Strong Industrial Base?
While India can achieve some level of development through its booming service sector, a robust industrial base is crucial for balanced and inclusive growth. A strong industrial sector can:
Conclusion
In conclusion, while India has experienced significant growth in the services sector, relying solely on this path could lead to unequal development. Establishing a strong industrial base is essential for fostering a balanced and inclusive economy, enabling India to emerge as a developed nation.
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