1. Gender-Equal Responsibility in Contraception: Addressing India's Sterilization Trends
Introduction
- India pioneered a family planning program in 1952, initially focused on maternal and child health.
- However, sterilization trends reveal stark gender disparities, with male vasectomies declining significantly, accounting for only 0.3% of sterilizations as per NFHS-5 (2019–21).
- Gender Disparities in Sterilization:
- From 1966-70, vasectomies comprised 80.5% of sterilizations; today, tubectomies dominate (37.9% female vs. 0.3% male sterilization rates).
- This trend contradicts Section 4.8 of the National Health Policy (2017), which aimed for at least 30% male sterilization.
- Burden falls disproportionately on women, raising challenges for gender equality (SDG 5).
- Barriers to Male Sterilization:
- Cultural and social perceptions link vasectomy with emasculation.
- Lack of awareness and workplace dynamics deter men from opting for vasectomies, particularly in rural areas.
- Insufficient focus on cash incentives or education for men exacerbates the disparity.
- Solutions and Global Practices:
- Awareness Initiatives:
- Observance of Vasectomy Day (third Friday of November) to address stigma.
- Information campaigns targeting misconceptions.
- Policy Interventions:
- Conditional cash incentives for vasectomy acceptance (e.g., Madhya Pradesh increased incentives by 50% in 2022).
- Global Lessons:
- South Korea: High vasectomy rates due to progressive gender norms.
- Bhutan: Standardized vasectomy camps to reduce stigma.
- Brazil: Media campaigns increased male sterilization rates from 0.8% in the 1980s to 5% in the last decade.
- The Way Forward:
- Increase male contraceptive awareness through grassroots campaigns.
- Align national health programs with community-based education, incentivization, and accessibility.
- Engage men in shared contraceptive responsibilities as a societal norm.
Conclusion
- Gender-equal contraceptive practices are essential for achieving SDG 5 and equitable healthcare.
- A focused strategy combining awareness, incentives, and accessible services can normalize vasectomy and balance contraceptive responsibilities.
Mains Practice Question |
Q: Critically analyze the gender disparity in contraceptive responsibilities in India. Suggest policy measures to promote male participation in family planning.Top of Form |
2. Reimagining Liberal Arts: Relevance, Skills, and Opportunities in a Changing World
Introduction
- Liberal arts, once a cornerstone of higher education, faces criticism for its perceived lack of practical utility and employability.
- Despite declining popularity in regions like North America, liberal arts is witnessing a revival in Europe and Asia, indicating its enduring relevance.
- This article examines the criticisms, global trends, and the evolving perception of liberal arts, especially in India.
- Decline of Liberal Arts in the West
- Historical Perspective: Liberal arts were initially designed to cultivate “thinking individuals,” focusing on humanities and sciences.
- Post-2008 Crisis: The 2008 financial recession led to skepticism about liberal arts’ value in offering tangible job prospects.
- Example: Humanities graduates in the U.S. dropped from 14% (1966) to 7% (2010).
- Criticism: Perceived as abstract and impractical, liberal arts is seen as catering to a privileged elite.
- Global Revival of Liberal Arts
- Europe:
- Universities like Nottingham launched liberal arts programs, countering over-specialization in education.
- More than 20 U.K. universities now offer liberal arts degrees, emphasizing interdisciplinary and humanistic learning.
- Asia:
- Hong Kong shifted to a four-year U.S.-style degree model incorporating liberal arts.
- Many Asian institutions blend liberal arts with specialized degrees, producing well-rounded graduates.
- Liberal Arts in India
- Rising Popularity:
- Traditionally focused on professional courses like engineering and medicine, India has seen a growing interest in liberal arts over the past two decades.
- Recognized for honing “soft skills” such as critical thinking, communication, and creativity, crucial for societal and economic growth.
- Challenges:
- Concerns persist about employability and the relevance of liberal arts in solving India’s pressing issues (poverty, caste inequality).
- Opportunities:
- Employers value liberal arts graduates for their multidisciplinary approach and problem-solving abilities.
- Relevance of Liberal Arts in a Globalized World
- Skills Imparted:
- Critical thinking, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication.
- Research, self-expression, and collaboration in diverse teams.
- Career Readiness: Liberal arts graduates thrive in sectors demanding creativity, innovation, and interpersonal skills.
New Educational Models: Indian institutions are pioneering interdisciplinary, experiential learning, using technology and mentorship to prepare global citizens.
Conclusion
- Liberal arts, far from being irrelevant, cultivates essential skills for the 21st-century workforce.
- As global trends show a renewed interest, India stands to benefit by integrating liberal arts into its educational framework.
- Balancing technical knowledge with critical thinking and creativity will ensure holistic development and address societal challenges.
Mains Practice Question
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Q: Critically examine the challenges and opportunities associated with the rise of liberal arts education in India. How can it contribute to addressing societal issues and enhancing employability? |
