In this blog we are going to get a glance to possible answers to certain questions that are related with Modi Government’s Healthcare Policy reforms.
Give it a glance , you will get more idea about the topic and it might be helpful in future.
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UPSC Mains (Model Descriptive Questions) Healthcare Policy Reforms by Modi Government :
- “Compare and contrast the healthcare policies of the Manmohan Singh and Narendra Modi governments. How has India’s healthcare sector evolved between 2004 and 2024?” (250 words)
- “Ayushman Bharat is considered a game-changer in India’s healthcare system. Discuss its impact on accessibility and affordability of healthcare in India.” (250 words)
- “Critically analyze the role of Swachh Bharat Mission in improving public health indicators in India.”(150 words)
- “Discuss the significance of price control on essential medicines and medical devices in India. How has government intervention affected healthcare affordability?” (250 words)
- “Examine the role of digital health initiatives like eSanjeevani and the National Digital Health Mission in transforming India’s healthcare landscape.” (150 words)
- “Assess the impact of Mission Indradhanush on immunization coverage in India. How does it compare with previous immunization programs?” (150 words)
- “The AIIMS expansion program aims to improve healthcare infrastructure in India. Analyze its effectiveness in bridging regional healthcare disparities.” (250 words)
1) “Compare and contrast the healthcare policies of the Manmohan Singh and Narendra Modi governments. How has India’s healthcare sector evolved between 2004 and 2024?” (250 words)
Comparison of Healthcare Policies: Manmohan Singh vs. Narendra Modi (2004-2024)
India’s healthcare sector has undergone significant changes between 2004 and 2024, shaped by the policies of the Manmohan Singh-led UPA (2004-2014) and Narendra Modi-led NDA (2014-2024).
Manmohan Singh Government (2004-2014)
The UPA government focused on expanding rural healthcare infrastructure and maternal health. Key initiatives included:
- National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) (2005): Strengthened rural healthcare by expanding primary health centers and deploying Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs).
- Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY): Promoted institutional deliveries to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.
- Universal Health Coverage Report (2011): Provided a framework for universal health access, though implementation remained slow.
- Public Spending: Healthcare expenditure remained low, around 1.2% of GDP, limiting progress in accessibility.
Narendra Modi Government (2014-2024)
The NDA government shifted focus towards universal health insurance and digital healthcare. Key policies include:
- Ayushman Bharat (2018): Launched PM-JAY, the world’s largest health insurance scheme, covering 500 million people.
- National Digital Health Mission (NDHM): Introduced digital health records and telemedicine.
- COVID-19 Response: India became a vaccine hub, successfully rolling out Covaxin and Covishield.
- Public Spending: Increased to ~2.1% of GDP by 2023-24.
Evolution of Healthcare (2004-2024)
Healthcare has evolved from infrastructure-focused rural programs to insurance-driven, technology-enabled services. While accessibility has improved, challenges such as doctor shortages, high out-of-pocket expenses, and rural healthcare gaps persist.
2) Ayushman Bharat is considered a game-changer in India’s healthcare system. Discuss its impact on accessibility and affordability of healthcare in India.” (250 words)
Ayushman Bharat: A Game-Changer in India’s Healthcare System
Launched in 2018, Ayushman Bharat is one of the most ambitious healthcare initiatives in India. It has significantly impacted accessibility and affordability, particularly for the economically weaker sections of society. The scheme has two key components: Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) and Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs).
Impact on Accessibility
- Wider Coverage: PM-JAY provides cashless hospitalization to over 500 million people, making quality healthcare more accessible to low-income families.
- Network Expansion: Over 25,000 empaneled hospitals, including private ones, ensure availability of healthcare across urban and rural areas.
- Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs): More than 1.5 lakh HWCs offer primary care services, reducing the burden on tertiary hospitals.
- Digital Health Infrastructure: The National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) under Ayushman Bharat has improved accessibility by enabling electronic health records and telemedicine.
Impact on Affordability
- Free Treatment: PM-JAY covers hospital expenses up to ₹5 lakh per family per year, reducing out-of-pocket expenditures.
- Reduced Financial Burden: Families previously pushed into poverty due to medical expenses now receive free treatment.
- Inclusion of Private Hospitals: The involvement of private hospitals has improved service quality without excessive costs.
All in all
Ayushman Bharat has transformed India’s healthcare landscape, improving access to quality healthcare while making it more affordable for millions. However, challenges like infrastructure gaps, funding sustainability, and service quality need continuous improvements.
New Employment Opportunities with New Healthcare Reforms :
The Ayushman Bharat initiative has not only improved healthcare access and affordability but also created significant employment opportunities in the sector.
- Community Health Officers (CHOs): To strengthen primary healthcare, around 1.2 lakh CHOs have been recruited at Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) across India.
- Overall Job Creation: The government estimates that Ayushman Bharat will generate approximately 11 lakh new jobs over 5-7 years, making it one of India’s largest employment creators after Indian Railways.
- State-wise Impact: Within the first nine months of implementation, around 47,000 new jobs were created, with states like Gujarat (8,183 jobs), Uttar Pradesh (7,880 jobs), and Tamil Nadu (6,279 jobs) seeing the highest employment growth in the healthcare sector.
The scheme has led to increased demand for healthcare professionals, administrative staff, and support services, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. This employment boom is helping to bridge India’s healthcare workforce gap while boosting economic growth.
Extra Reference :
3) Critically analyze the role of Swachh Bharat Mission in improving public health indicators in India.”(150 words)
Critical Analysis of Swachh Bharat Mission and Its Impact on Public Health
Launched in 2014, the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) aimed to eliminate open defecation and improve sanitation infrastructure across India. Its impact on public health has been significant but not without challenges.
Positive Impact on Public Health:
- Decline in Waterborne Diseases: Improved sanitation has reduced cases of diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid, especially in rural areas.
- Reduction in Child Mortality: Studies indicate a decline in under-five mortality rates, as better hygiene prevents infections.
- Behavioral Change: Large-scale campaigns promoted toilet usage, waste management, and handwashing habits.
Challenges and Criticism:
- Sustainability Issues: Many newly built toilets remain unused or poorly maintained due to water shortages.
- Open Defecation Persisting: Some rural areas still practice open defecation despite infrastructure improvements.
- Health Infrastructure Gap: Cleanliness alone cannot address broader health issues like malnutrition and poor healthcare access.
All in all
While SBM has improved public health indicators, long-term impact depends on sustained infrastructure maintenance, behavioral changes, and complementary healthcare improvements.
Swachh Bharat Mission Stats :
The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) has significantly improved sanitation infrastructure in India since its launch in 2014.
- Total Toilets Constructed: By 2020, over 109 million individual household toilets were built across India.
- Urban Sanitation: More than 6.28 million individual household latrines and 636,000 community and public toilet seats were constructed in urban areas.
- Rural Sanitation: Over 100 million household toilets were built in villages, leading to 600,000+ villages being declared open defecation-free (ODF) by 2019.
These efforts have greatly expanded toilet accessibility, helping reduce open defecation and improve public health. However, challenges like maintenance, water availability, and behavioral changes remain crucial for long-term success.
Extra reference :
4) Discuss the significance of price control on essential medicines and medical devices in India. How has government intervention affected healthcare affordability?” (250 words)
Significance of Price Control on Essential Medicines and Medical Devices in India
Price control on essential medicines and medical devices plays a critical role in ensuring affordable healthcare for millions in India. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) regulates drug prices under the Drug Price Control Order (DPCO) to prevent excessive profiteering and ensure accessibility.
Impact on Healthcare Affordability
- Lower Drug Costs: The NPPA has capped prices for over 800 essential medicines, including life-saving drugs for cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. This has reduced treatment costs for chronic diseases.
- Affordable Medical Devices: Price caps on medical devices like stents and knee implants have reduced costs by up to 85%, making critical treatments accessible to a larger population.
- Increased Access to Healthcare: Reduced costs encourage more patients to seek timely medical care, preventing severe health complications.
- Support for Health Insurance Schemes: Price control reduces the burden on government schemes like Ayushman Bharat, allowing coverage of more beneficiaries.
Challenges and Criticism
- Impact on Innovation: Pharmaceutical companies argue that price controls reduce incentives for research and innovation.
- Shortages and Quality Concerns: Some manufacturers reduce supply or compromise on quality to maintain profitability.
- Limited Scope: Many life-saving drugs and medical devices remain outside price regulation, keeping some treatments expensive.
All in all
Government intervention in price control has significantly improved healthcare affordability, but continuous monitoring and a balance between regulation and innovation are essential for sustainable healthcare growth.
Jan Aushadhi Kendra Stats & Ayushman Bharat Stats :
As of February 2025, India has set up around 15,057 Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). These stores provide affordable generic medicines, helping reduce healthcare costs for millions of people.
Regarding Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), the scheme targets 12 crore families, covering nearly 55 crore individuals. As of November 2024, approximately 36 crore beneficiaries have been verified, and over 8.39 crore hospital admissions have been approved, amounting to more than ₹1.16 lakh crore in healthcare expenses.
Both initiatives have significantly improved healthcare accessibility and affordability in India. While Jan Aushadhi Kendras provide low-cost medicines, Ayushman Bharat ensures free hospital treatment for low-income families, reducing their financial burden.
Extra Reference :
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
5) Examine the role of digital health initiatives like eSanjeevani and the National Digital Health Mission in transforming India’s healthcare landscape.” (150 words)
Role of Digital Health Initiatives in Transforming India’s Healthcare
India’s healthcare landscape has been significantly transformed by digital health initiatives like eSanjeevani and the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM), improving accessibility, efficiency, and affordability.
eSanjeevani – Bridging Healthcare Gaps
- A telemedicine platform providing free online doctor consultations, particularly benefiting rural and remote areas.
- Over 15 crore teleconsultations have been conducted, reducing the burden on physical healthcare facilities.
National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) – Enabling Digital Healthcare
- Introduced ABHA (Ayushman Bharat Health Account) for digitized health records, ensuring seamless access to medical history across hospitals.
- Enhances interoperability between doctors, patients, and healthcare providers, improving treatment efficiency.
- Facilitates e-pharmacies and digital prescriptions, making medicine access more convenient.
All in all
These initiatives are making healthcare more inclusive and tech-driven, but challenges like data security, digital literacy, and internet accessibility need continuous improvement for wider adoption.
Aims and objectives of eSanjeevani and the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM):
| Objective | eSanjeevani (Telemedicine Platform) | National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) |
|---|---|---|
| Bridging Healthcare Gaps | Provides free teleconsultations for rural areas. | Connects healthcare providers digitally for seamless access. |
| Enhancing Accessibility | Enables online doctor consultations, reducing travel needs. | Stores and shares patient health records digitally. |
| Digitizing Health Records | Not applicable (focuses on consultations). | ABHA (Ayushman Bharat Health Account)enables e-records. |
| Improving Efficiency | Reduces hospital crowding and waiting times. | Facilitates e-prescriptions, online appointments,etc. |
| Public-Private Collaboration | Fully government-run telemedicine service. | Allows private hospitals, clinics, and startups to integrate services. |
| Overall Vision | Expands telemedicine to underserved regions. | Creates a paperless, tech-driven healthcare ecosystem. |
These initiatives together aim to digitally transform India’s healthcare system, ensuring affordable, efficient, and accessible services for all.
6) Assess the impact of Mission Indradhanush on immunization coverage in India. How does it compare with previous immunization programs?” (150 words)
Impact of Mission Indradhanush on Immunization Coverage in India
Launched in 2014, Mission Indradhanush (MI) aimed to increase full immunization coverage for children under two years and pregnant women in India. It targeted low-coverage districts to improve vaccination rates against diseases like polio, measles, and hepatitis B.
Impact on Immunization Coverage
- Increased Full Immunization: Before MI, full immunization coverage was ~62% (2013-14). By 2021, it increased to 76%.
- Targeting High-Risk Areas: Over 2.85 crore children and 72 lakh pregnant women have been vaccinated under MI and its intensified phases.
- Reduction in Disease Burden: A significant decline in vaccine-preventable diseases has been observed.
Comparison with Previous Programs
- Unlike the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) (1985), MI focused on rapid, targeted interventions in underserved areas.
- Intensified MI (IMI) (2017, 2019) accelerated progress by reaching hard-to-access populations more effectively.
Conclusion
Mission Indradhanush has significantly improved immunization rates, making it one of India’s most impactful vaccination drives, but sustained efforts are needed to achieve 100% coverage.
Key Differences Between Polio Mission & Mission Indradhanush
| Feature | Pulse Polio Mission (1995) | Mission Indradhanush (2014) |
|---|---|---|
| Main Focus | Eradication of polio | Full immunization for children & pregnant women against 12+ diseases |
| Diseases Covered | Only Polio (OPV/IPV) | Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus (DPT), Measles, Polio, Hepatitis B, Tuberculosis, Hib, Rotavirus, Pneumonia, JE, Rubella, etc. |
| Target Population | All children under 5 years | Children under 2 years & pregnant women |
| Strategy | Nationwide door-to-door polio vaccination campaigns | Targeted low-coverage districts & underserved populations |
| Outcome | India was declared polio-free in 2014 | Immunization coverage improved from 62% (2013-14) to ~76% (2021) |
All in all
While both programs focus on preventive healthcare through vaccination, Mission Indradhanush is a more comprehensive initiative, covering multiple diseases beyond polio. It builds on the success of past programs but takes a broader, more targeted approach to immunization.
Who Are the People Behind Mission Indradhanush?
Mission Indradhanush (MI) was launched in 2014 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and then-Health Minister J.P. Nadda. It was implemented by the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) in collaboration with:
- WHO (World Health Organization)
- UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund)
- GAVI (Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization)
- Rotary International (which played a crucial role in polio eradication)
Was It Started After COVID-19?
No, Mission Indradhanush was launched in 2014, much before the COVID-19 pandemic. However, after COVID-19, an advanced version called “Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) 4.0” was launched in 2022 to recover vaccination coverage lost due to pandemic disruptions.
All in all
Mission Indradhanush was introduced before COVID-19 as a comprehensive immunization drive, and post-pandemic, it was further intensified to ensure no child misses essential vaccinations.
7) The AIIMS expansion program aims to improve healthcare infrastructure in India. Analyze its effectiveness in bridging regional healthcare disparities.” (250 words)
AIIMS Expansion Program: Bridging Regional Healthcare Disparities
The AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) Expansion Program is a major government initiative aimed at improving tertiary healthcare infrastructure and reducing regional healthcare disparities in India. Under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), new AIIMS institutions are being set up across various states to provide high-quality medical care, education, and research facilities.
Impact on Regional Healthcare Disparities
- Increased Access to Advanced Healthcare
- Before expansion, AIIMS healthcare facilities were limited to Delhi. Now, 24 new AIIMS have been announced, with many already operational in states like Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand.
- This reduces the need for patients to travel to metro cities for specialized treatment.
- Medical Education & Workforce Growth
- New AIIMS institutions train thousands of doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals, addressing the shortage of medical staff in underserved regions.
- Affordable Healthcare Services
- AIIMS hospitals provide low-cost or free treatment under government schemes like Ayushman Bharat, making advanced medical care accessible to economically weaker sections.
Challenges & Limitations
- Infrastructure Delays: Many new AIIMS are still under construction or partially operational.
- Staffing Issues: Shortage of experienced doctors and faculty at new AIIMS branches.
- Regional Disparities Persist: Some remote areas still lack access to quality healthcare despite expansion.
All in all
While the AIIMS expansion program has significantly improved healthcare accessibility, sustained efforts in staffing, infrastructure development, and outreach services are needed to fully bridge regional disparities.
a structured table highlighting how the AIIMS Expansion Program contributes to increasing the number of doctors and strengthening healthcare in India:
| Aspect | Impact of AIIMS Expansion |
|---|---|
| Increase in MBBS Seats | Each new AIIMS offers 100–125 MBBS seats, producing thousands of new doctorsannually. |
| Growth in Specialists | AIIMS institutions offer MD, MS, DM, MCh courses, increasing the number of specialized doctors. |
| Medical Education in Underserved Areas | Reduces dependence on metro cities for medical training, benefiting states like Bihar, Assam, and Jharkhand. |
| More Research & Innovation | AIIMS promotes medical research and advanced healthcare solutions, improving treatments. |
| Strengthening Rural Healthcare | Trains doctors, nurses, and paramedics to serve in government hospitals and remote areas. |
| Government Schemes Integration | AIIMS hospitals support schemes like Ayushman Bharat, ensuring affordable healthcare for all. |
| Challenges | Faculty shortages, infrastructure delays, and operational gaps in newly established AIIMS centers. |
All in all
The AIIMS expansion is a game-changer for India’s healthcare system, significantly increasing the number of doctorsand improving medical education, but requires continuous investment and management to reach its full potential.
Conclusion :
The Modi government’s healthcare policies have indeed brought significant improvements in India’s healthcare system, making it more accessible, affordable, and technology-driven. From Ayushman Bharat to the AIIMS expansion program, various initiatives have strengthened medical infrastructure, increased insurance coverage, and improved public health indicators.
Key Achievements in Healthcare Under Modi Government
| Policy/Initiative | Impact |
|---|---|
| Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) | World’s largest health insurance scheme, covering 50 crore+ poor Indians. |
| AIIMS Expansion Program | 24 new AIIMS to improve regional healthcare access and increase medical seats. |
| Jan Aushadhi Kendras | Over 10,000 stores providing affordable medicines, reducing costs by 50-90%. |
| Mission Indradhanush | Immunization coverage increased from 62% to ~76%, reducing child mortality. |
| eSanjeevani (Telemedicine) | Over 15 crore teleconsultations, helping rural and remote areas. |
| National Digital Health Mission | Digital health records through ABHA (Ayushman Bharat Health Account) for patients. |
| Swachh Bharat Mission | Over 11 crore toilets built, reducing open defecation and improving public health. |
Bureaucrats and Departments Behind Modi Government’s Healthcare Reforms
The success of India’s healthcare policies under PM Narendra Modi is largely due to the efficient execution by bureaucrats and key government departments. Here’s a list of key officials and their respective departments that played a crucial role in transforming India’s healthcare system:
| Bureaucrat | Designation/Department | Role in Healthcare Reforms |
|---|---|---|
| Rajesh Bhushan | Former Health Secretary, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) | Led the Ayushman Bharat rollout, managed COVID-19 response. |
| Dr. R.S. Sharma | Former CEO, National Health Authority (NHA) | Developed CoWIN platform, helped in Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). |
| V.K. Paul | Member, NITI Aayog (Health Division) | Key policymaker for AIIMS expansion, telemedicine (eSanjeevani), and COVID strategy. |
| Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya | Union Minister, MoHFW | Oversees AIIMS expansion, Jan Aushadhi Kendras, and Ayushman Bharat. |
| Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar | Minister of State, MoHFW | Supports Mission Indradhanush, Swachh Bharat health initiatives. |
| Dr. Sunil Kumar | Former DGHS (Director General of Health Services), MoHFW | Played a role in public health initiatives and AIIMS policy improvements. |
| Indu Bhushan | Former CEO, NHA | Led the initial implementation of Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY). |
Key Departments Driving Healthcare Policies
| Department/Agency | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) | Implements Ayushman Bharat, AIIMS Expansion, Mission Indradhanush, and Swachh Bharat health initiatives. |
| National Health Authority (NHA) | Manages Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) and National Digital Health Mission (NDHM). |
| NITI Aayog (Health Division) | Formulates long-term healthcare policies, AIIMS expansion, and digital health strategy. |
| Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) | Oversees public health programs and hospital infrastructure. |
| Department of Pharmaceuticals | Regulates Jan Aushadhi Kendras and price control on essential medicines. |
All in all
The success of Modi’s healthcare policies is due to a well-coordinated effort between the government, bureaucrats, and key departments. Their work has made India’s healthcare more accessible, affordable, and technology-driven, earning international recognition.
Under Modi’s leadership, India’s healthcare has seen one of the best transformations globally, particularly in universal health coverage, digital health, and infrastructure development. The bureaucracy’s effective executionhas been a crucial factor, making India’s healthcare model a benchmark for other nations.
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