Keralam's lower infant mortality than U.S. driven by democracy and human freedoms
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Health policy & public health· Mains·
Democracy and human freedoms as drivers for health indicators: a GS2 Social Justice and Development case study.
Why in news
A report highlights that Keralam's lower infant mortality than the U.S. is driven by robust democracy and human freedoms rather than just economic growth.
Background
Keralam transformed from one of the poorest states in 1956 to one of the richest today. If Keralam were a nation, it would rank 75 on the Human Development Index, 55 ranks above India's current rank of 130.
Facts for Prelims
- FactKeralam's hypothetical Human Development Index (HDI) rank is 75.
- FactIndia's current Human Development Index (HDI) rank is 130.
- FactKeralam's infant mortality is lower than that of the U.S.
- FactKeralam was ranked among the poorest states in 1956, on par with Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
Prelims practice question
What is the current Human Development Index (HDI) rank of India as mentioned in the report?
- (a)100
- (b)130
- (c)115
- (d)125
Show answer
Answer: (b) 130 — The note states that India's current Human Development Index (HDI) rank is 130.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how expanding human freedoms and democratic governance can serve as primary drivers for improving health indicators in developing economies.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Developmental paradigm: Shift from income-centric 'Viksit Bharat' metrics to Amartya Sen's human freedom-based development.
- Democracy as a catalyst: Role of robust democratic institutions in improving infant mortality and social indicators.
- Regional divergence: Analysis of Keralam's success in achieving high HDI despite lower historical income levels.
Keywords: Human Development Index · Infant Mortality · Human Freedoms · Democratic Governance · Amartya Sen · Social Indicators
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