Health Status and Programmes in India

In 1947, at the time of India's independence, healthcare services were utterly inadequate, urban-based, and curative in nature. A majority of the population, especially the poor and those residing in rural areas, did not have access to modern health facilities. Consequently, the morbidity and mortality rates were quite high. Improvement in the health status of India's population has been one of the major focus areas in social development programs. Over the past 68 years, India has built up a vast healthcare infrastructure manned by professionals and para-medicals. The country has invested heavily in medical education, training, and research. There have been considerable achievements towards improved health standards, such as an increase in life expectancy, a decrease in infant and maternal mortality, and the eradication of small pox and guinea worm. Nevertheless, problems abound. Malnutrition affects a large proportion of the population. Too many continue to suffer and die from disease. Pregnancy and childbirth related complications also contribute to the suffering and mortality of women. This book examines the current status of health and health-related services/programs in India. [Subject: India Studies, Healthcare]