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Journalism of Courage
Jan Swasthya Abhiyan (JSA), a coalition of health activists, experts and organisations committed to the advancement of public health in India, announced the launch of its People’s Health Manifesto 2024 in the run-up to the general elections starting from April 19.
Under the theme `Our Health, Our Right!’, the manifesto outlines key policy recommendations aimed at ensuring universal access to quality healthcare services for all residents of India. The 18-point People’s Health Manifesto, developed through extensive consultation and collaboration with various constituents of the JSA, emphasises the urgent need for transformative reforms in the healthcare sector to address the existing challenges and disparities.
“India’s public spending on health is among the lowest in the world. Per capita government spending is USD 21 in India, while Thailand spends USD 207 (ten times), China spends USD 302 (14 times) and Sri Lanka spends USD 76 (3.5 times). After the Covid-19 experience, it was expected that the government would prioritise health and increase spending in the sector. However, it is unfortunate that the Union Government has reduced spending on health from 0.37 per cent in 2020-21 to 0.29 per cent in 2024-25,” JSA’s national co-convenor Dr Abhay Shukla said
Speaking on the launch of the Health Manifesto, Richa Chintan, national co-convener of the JSA said, “We urge political parties and policymakers to prioritise these recommendations to ensure the right to health for every individual.”
India also fares badly in terms of out-of-pocket expenditure, the JSA said. Patients and families spend more than 50 per cent of the total expenditure on health. In this context, the JSA’s manifesto makes concrete policy proposals that will improve access to free and quality healthcare for all.
Ravi Duggal, public health researcher and activist said, “A public-centred system for universal healthcare is the cornerstone of a just society. We envision a future where healthcare is a common system that provides for the health needs of all residents of India, irrespective of their socio-economic status.”
Among the prominent features of the manifesto are:
