Unlocking a Healthier Future: Why Inclusivity is Key to India’s New Health Initiative

In India, access to basic health care seems widespread, but the truth is more complex. A recent study shows that only 65% of households use improved health services consistently. The disparity is even more significant among marginalized communities like Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

Despite the construction of health facilities, issues like trust, awareness, and access still hinder effective usage. The 2024 study based on the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) highlights that wealthier families are up to 47 times more likely to use enhanced health care, even when accounting for education and location. Central and eastern India show the most pronounced gaps in access despite some progress over the years.

This situation is not just numerical. Research in urban slums of Kolkata and Bengaluru indicates that long-standing deprivation often leads to poor health choices. Community trust is crucial; simply building clinics isn’t enough. Health services see better utilization when local connections are involved.

Globally, access to essential health services remains a challenge. According to UNICEF and WHO, only 52% of people have access globally, and 70% lack basic hygiene facilities. India reflects this trend, with uneven health service uptake despite improved infrastructure.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) can be a game-changer. When organizations focus on community needs, they can create sustainable health improvements. Initiatives like Vedanta’s SEHAT project, which assists primary health centers and offers health education, show promise. They’ve reached over 11,000 rural patients in Punjab, cutting household healthcare spending by nearly 70%.

Hyundai’s Sparsh Sanjeevani network, with 35 mobile units, has already helped 1.5 million people across seven states. Similarly, the NTPC Foundation invested Rs 254 crore in health and water projects, benefiting 1.6 million individuals in 581 villages.

Moreover, programs focusing on breaking stigma are vital. The Aditya Birla Education Trust’s Ujaas initiative promotes menstrual hygiene, while Tata’s Aarogyatara program has successfully completed thousands of cataract surgeries.

These efforts demonstrate that effective health initiatives prioritize prevention, target vulnerable groups, align with healthcare systems, and are sustainable. Programs must align with WHO-UNICEF’s guidelines for health delivery that stress local engagement and rights-based approaches.

The dialogue surrounding health equity will continue to evolve, especially as we approach the 2030 goals set by the UN for universal health access. Engaging communities, improving trust, and addressing systemic barriers together form the key to enhancing health outcomes for all.



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