Addressing Poverty, Malnutrition, and Health Care in Rural and Urban India: A Critical Examination

Poverty Reduction:

• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): Launched in 2019, PM-KISAN provides a financial assistance of Rs. 6,000 per year to small and marginal farmers.
• Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Yojana (RGSY): Launched in 2018, RGSY aims to improve the overall quality of life in rural areas by providing basic amenities like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
• Recent Examples: The Centre’s decision to increase the minimum support price (MSP) for crops, as well as the state governments’ initiatives like the “Kisan Rail” to reduce agricultural waste, demonstrate the government’s efforts to address poverty in rural areas.

Malnutrition:

• National Nutrition Mission (NNM): Launched in 2017, NNM aims to reduce malnutrition by increasing access to nutritious food, improving healthcare, and promoting education.
• Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): ICDS is a flagship program that provides supplementary nutrition to children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.
• Recent Examples: The introduction of Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK) and the National Food Security Act (NFSA) are initiatives aimed at reducing malnutrition.

Health Care:

• Ayushman Bharat Scheme: Launched in 2018, Ayushman Bharat aims to provide health insurance coverage to vulnerable populations.
• National Health Mission (NHM): NHM is a flagship program that aims to improve healthcare infrastructure and services in rural areas.
• Recent Examples: The government’s decision to increase the allocation of funds for healthcare, as well as initiatives like the “Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission”, demonstrate the government’s efforts to improve healthcare services.

Challenges:

• Inadequate Infrastructure: Rural areas often lack adequate healthcare infrastructure, making it difficult for patients to access quality healthcare services.
• Limited Access: Many marginalized communities lack access to healthcare services due to geographical and economic constraints.
• Gaps in Implementation: There are gaps in the implementation of these programs, which can lead to inadequate coverage and effectiveness.