Health

Euthanasia in India

Context: Recently, the Supreme Court of India declined a request to remove a Ryles tube from a patient in a vegetative state, even though the 2018 judgment on passive euthanasia permits the withdrawal of life support in terminal cases. Understanding Euthanasia: Euthanasia, also known as mercy killing, refers to intentionally …

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Pharmaceutical Industry

Context (TH): Recent government decisions that prioritize imports over local production could undermine India’s domestic pharmaceutical sector and potentially result in increased drug prices. Ensuring the availability of affordable medications is vital in India, where out-of-pocket health expenditures made up nearly 47.1% of total spending in 2021. Current Scenario India, …

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Malnutrition – cause, impact and initiatives

Context According to the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Poshan Tracker data reveals that approximately 17% of children aged 0-5 years are underweight, 36% are stunted, and 6% are wasted. Findings of Poshan Tracker: Stunting Rates: Uttar Pradesh (46.36%), Lakshadweep (46.31%), Maharashtra (44.59%), and Madhya Pradesh (41.61%). Wasting Rates: …

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Chromium Contamination of Groundwater

Context: The National Green Tribunal has instructed the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) to investigate chromium contamination in the groundwater of Sukinda Valley, Odisha. Key Details: Location: Sukinda Valley in Odisha is home to 97% of India’s chromite ore deposits. Chromium Characteristics: Chromium is a shiny, hard, brittle metal with …

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National Health Infrastructure: NHCE, DHIS, NHA

Introduction India’s healthcare system faces significant challenges, including fragmented data, inefficient claim processing, and limited access to digital health services. The National Health Authority (NHA) has introduced key initiatives to address these issues, including the National Health Claim Exchange (NHCE) and the Digital Health Incentive Scheme (DHIS). Understanding these programs …

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