GS 2 · 2021Government policies and interventions10 Marks

Q15.“Besides being a moral imperative of the Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse.

Directive: Analyse10 marks

Introduction

Primary health structure, providing accessible and affordable first-point-of-contact care, is crucial. It is both a fundamental moral obligation of a welfare state and an indispensable foundation for sustainable development.

Body

Primary Health as a Moral Imperative

As a moral imperative, primary health aligns with DPSP (Art 47), upholding the right to health, equity, and human dignity. A welfare state must provide accessible, affordable, comprehensive primary care, especially to vulnerable sections, reducing suffering and improving quality of life.

Primary Health as a Precondition for Sustainable Development

Furthermore, it is a precondition for sustainable development. A robust primary health system directly contributes to SDG 3 and indirectly to poverty reduction, education, and economic growth. By fostering a healthy, productive populace, it builds human capital and economic resilience, reducing out-of-pocket expenditures and the burden on higher care levels.

Conclusion

Thus, investing in primary health is not merely an ethical choice but a strategic necessity for holistic national progress and long-term societal well-being.

157 words · target ~150