India’s public health spending remains persistently low, with total government expenditure hovering around 1.5–2% of GDP, far below the 2.5% target set by the National Health Policy. While States have gradually increased their health allocations, the Union government’s share as a percentage of GDP has declined after a temporary rise during COVID-19. This underinvestment leads to overburdened public hospitals, weak primary healthcare, high out-of-pocket expenses, and regional inequalities. Despite major initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and the National Health Mission, inadequate and inconsistent funding continues to limit progress toward universal, affordable, and equitable healthcare in India.
Click to View MoreIndia has made major progress toward malaria elimination under its National Framework for Malaria Elimination (2016–2030), with cases falling by around 80% between 2015 and 2023. Many districts have already reported zero indigenous cases, and the country has exited the WHO High Burden to High Impact group. The strategy now focuses on strong surveillance through the “Test, Treat and Track” approach, universal access to diagnosis and treatment, and intensified vector control.
However, challenges remain in the form of migration, urban malaria, hard-to-reach tribal and forested areas, and the persistence of Plasmodium vivax, which can relapse. Drug and insecticide resistance are also emerging concerns. India aims to achieve zero indigenous cases by 2027 and full elimination by 2030, but success will depend on accurate reporting, strong urban and community participation, and preventing re-establishment of transmission in malaria-free areas.
Click to View MoreEarly childhood care and development, especially during the first 3,000 days of life, is crucial for building strong human capital. While India has improved child survival through health and nutrition programmes, holistic development covering cognitive, emotional and social aspects remains underemphasised. Global evidence shows that early investment yields the highest economic and social returns. A universal, integrated and citizen-led ECCD approach is essential for achieving inclusive growth and the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Click to View MoreIndia’s goal of “Health for All” faces major hurdles such as low public health spending, rising non-communicable and infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and persistent gaps in infrastructure and access. Although initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, Health and Wellness Centres, and disease-control programmes have expanded services, missed TB targets and repeated pharmaceutical quality lapses reveal systemic weaknesses. Achieving true universal health coverage will require higher funding, stronger regulation, and a primary healthcare–centred approach.
Click to View More
Scientists have discovered a special type of brain immune cell called microglia that can protect against Alzheimer’s disease by reducing inflammation and slowing the buildup of harmful proteins like amyloid plaques and tau. These cells work through molecules PU.1 and CD28, offering a potential new direction for treatment. Alzheimer’s, a progressive brain disorder causing memory and cognitive decline, is a growing public health challenge globally and in India. Governments are responding with awareness campaigns, healthcare policies, and research initiatives, but challenges like high costs, limited access, and early diagnosis remain. The discovery highlights the promise of combining scientific research, healthcare, and policy to combat Alzheimer’s disease.
Click to View MoreThe Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), with a ₹64,180 crore outlay, builds a resilient health system by strengthening primary to tertiary care. It sets up labs, critical care blocks, and disease surveillance while promoting a ‘One Health’ approach for preventive, diagnostic healthcare.
Click to View MoreIndia’s ambulance services aim to provide timely, standardized emergency care under initiatives like the National Ambulance Code (AIS-125) and 108 Emergency Services. With ~22,245 ambulances nationally, challenges remain in fleet size, response times, training, and standardization. Emergency care is a constitutional duty under Article 21, and measures like GPS-enabled dispatch, air/drone ambulances, and state regulatory authorities are being implemented to achieve the Platinum Ten Minutes response standard.
Click to View MoreThe Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan, launched by PM Modi, unites MoHFW and MoWCD to strengthen women’s and children’s healthcare through preventive care, early detection, and community action, envisioning healthier families as the cornerstone of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Click to View More
© 2026 iasgyan. All right reserved