22nd November Editorial

Climate Change and Health in India

Introduction

As India prepares for the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), a critical aspect that demands attention is the impact of climate change on the country’s health.

This editorial analytical note explores the direct and indirect effects of climate change on health in India, emphasizing the vulnerabilities posed by inadequate health systems and the urgent need for comprehensive mitigation strategies.

Direct Impact on Health

Climate change manifests directly in increased sickness and mortality rates.
The year 2023 witnessed unprecedented temperatures and heatwaves, setting new historical records.
With climate emergencies such as extreme heat, cyclones, and floods anticipated to become more frequent, challenges to food security, livelihoods, and overall health are expected to escalate.

Double Burden of Morbidity

India faces a double burden of morbidity from both communicable and non-communicable diseases, a situation exacerbated by climate change.
The altered climate could facilitate the growth of disease vectors and pathogens, impacting the seasonality and geographic spread of infections.
The decrease in nutritional value of food due to climate-induced factors further increases vulnerability to diseases, creating a complex web of health challenges.

Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health

Less recognized is the impact of climate change on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health, both of which are poorly managed in India.
Climate-related factors such as heat, physical exertion, and dehydration contribute to kidney injuries and worsen conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases.
Mental health issues, including depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, are often overlooked, despite their association with climate emergencies.

Urbanization and Climate Change

India’s rapid and unplanned urbanization exacerbates the health effects of climate change, especially in urban areas lacking green spaces.
The urban heat island effect intensifies in areas with inadequate greenery, contributing to health problems.
Urban planning that discourages physical activity, coupled with air pollution and cultural stress, places additional strain on the urban health system.

Mitigation Strategies

Efforts to mitigate the health impacts of climate change should involve understanding both direct and indirect pathways.

However, existing health information systems are not adequately modified to gather relevant data.

Social support systems and improved health services can alleviate the impact, but upstream interventions such as better urban planning, increased green cover, water conservation, and public health initiatives are crucial for addressing the root causes.

Multilevel Action for Climate Change Control

Addressing climate change and its health impacts requires action at global, regional, and local levels.

The pathways of climate change and its specific impact on health will determine the appropriate areas for intervention.

Recognition of climate change as a manageable issue, research-backed policy options, and decisive actions by national, state, and local governments are essential.

The convergence of problematization, policy options, and political decision-making is crucial for meaningful change.

Conclusion

As India approaches COP28, a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between climate change and health is imperative.

The nation must acknowledge the urgency of addressing this challenge, and researchers, policymakers, and governments must collaborate to implement effective strategies.

Meaningful change in the status quo regarding climate change and its impact on health will only occur when the necessary conditions of problematization, policy options, and political decision-making are satisfactorily met.

Economic Outlook for the Second Quarter

Introduction:

The second quarter of the financial year is traditionally considered stable due to factors like pre-harvest time and limited agricultural output entering the market.

However, unique circumstances in the current year challenge this pattern, with delayed festivals and heightened optimism in various sectors.

Optimism and Preparation:

Companies have shown optimism since August, preparing in advance for heightened demand.
Increased bank credit to the retail segment and concerns about unsecured personal loans reflect household borrowing for consumption.
The Cricket World Cup has boosted the services sector, particularly travel and tourism.

Key Economic Indicators:

Industrial Production (IIP): The IIP growth for the second quarter stands at 7.4%, a significant increase from the previous year, contributing positively to GDP growth.

Steel and Cement Growth: High growth rates in steel (11.9%) and cement (7.3%) will boost the construction segment.

GST Collections: A 10.6% growth in GST collections indicates a positive trend in the services component, especially in trade.

Financial Services and Government Expenditure:

Credit and Deposits: Quarterly growth in credit and deposits was 17.6% and 12.3% respectively, pointing towards impressive growth rates in the financial services industry.
Government Expenditure: Total government expenditure, including revenue expenditure, has been steady, slightly higher compared to the previous year.

Corporate Results and GDP Projection:

Corporate Profits: Despite depressed sales, corporate profits have shown impressive growth, contributing to the overall value added in various sectors.

GDP Projection: While the RBI projected a growth of 6.5%, back-of-the-envelope calculations suggest a slightly lower range of 6.2-6.4%. This still indicates a firm economic footing, with annual growth expected to be between 6.3-6.5%.

Nominal GDP vs. Real GDP:

Inflation Impact: WPI inflation for the quarter was -0.65%, suggesting that nominal GDP growth could closely align with real GDP growth. This trend may persist throughout the year.

Challenges and Uncertainties for Future Quarters:

Rural Demand: Less-than-normal kharif output may impact rural demand, traditionally a crucial factor. Corporate commentary indicates weak rural demand.

Consumer Spending Drivers: Inflation, especially in food, might slow down the drivers of higher consumer spending. Premium products perform well, but mass products face challenges.
Private Sector Investment: Private sector investment shows caution, with new investment announcements lower than the previous year. The private sector’s cautious approach could impact overall economic growth.

Future Outlook:

The trajectory of GDP growth for the year depends on how these factors play out in the coming months.

While slower growth than the previous year is expected, the 6.3-6.5% forecast remains healthy.

The private sector’s response and government policies in the post-election year will be crucial in determining the potential for higher growth in the following year.

Inclusion of Transgender Personnel in the Armed Forces

Introduction: Recognizing the Changing Dynamics

Over recent years, there has been a commendable shift in societal attitudes towards the transgender community, acknowledging their rights and promoting inclusivity.

This transformation is vital given the historical marginalization faced by transgender individuals globally.

Nature, in its diversity, manifests in varied gender expressions, often resulting from chromosomal or hormonal complexities.

Accepting these diversities as natural is the first step towards building a more inclusive society.

Global Trends in Transgender Inclusion: Progress and Opportunities

In developed nations, a notable movement towards inclusivity has emerged, affording transgender individuals improved opportunities across various facets of life.

Recognition is growing that competence and capability, rather than gender identity, should determine an individual’s standing in society.

This trend is encouraging, signifying a departure from past prejudices.

Challenges Faced by Transgender Persons: A Call for Proactive Measures

Despite progress, transgender individuals continue to encounter challenges such as identity crises, discrimination, limited educational opportunities, and unemployment.

In India, steps have been taken, including the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act of 2019.

The recent consideration of transgender inclusion in the armed forces marks a significant stride, highlighting the need for proactive measures to integrate this community swiftly.

Armed Forces Dynamics: Discipline, Camaraderie, and Unique Challenges

The armed forces, characterized by strong discipline, camaraderie, and a commitment to sacrifice, reflect societal values.

Any inclusion must be evaluated considering the impact on team dynamics and performance.

The advisory body’s responsibility in this context is to carefully assess and recommend measures that align with the armed forces’ ethos.

Strategic Considerations for Inclusion: A Veteran’s Perspective

With a wealth of experience in the armed forces, the author advocates for the acceptance of transgender personnel based on competence, educational background, and capabilities.

Drawing parallels with the incremental inclusion of women, a cautious and calibrated approach is recommended, mirroring societal acceptance.

The author emphasizes the importance of a social awareness strategy within the armed forces to foster understanding and combat previous discrimination.

Role of Medical Services: Paving the Way for Inclusion

Reflecting on historical precedents, the author suggests drawing parallels with the inclusion of women in the armed forces’ medical services.

This strategic approach of starting with relatively sheltered appointments in service corps may preserve dignity and pave the way for broader acceptance.
The potential role of transgender personnel as staff officers in senior appointments is highlighted, contributing to their visibility and acceptability.

Recommendations for Implementation: Transparency and Inclusivity

The author suggests initiating these measures only after extensive internal discussions within the armed forces, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an environment of absolute trust.

Involving the transgender community in the decision-making process is seen as essential to creating an intellectual climate that fosters understanding and justice for this historically disadvantaged group.

Conclusion: A Step Towards Inclusive Excellence

In conclusion, the proposal for transgender inclusion in the armed forces is a significant step towards a more inclusive and diverse organization.

Careful consideration, transparent deliberations, and strategic implementation will be paramount to ensuring the success of this initiative.

The armed forces, with their commitment to discipline and sacrifice, have the potential to set an inspiring example for societal inclusivity and justice.