GS4 · UPSC Mains
You are a dedicated District Health Officer (DHO) with a strong commitment to evidence-based public health practices, recently assigned to a remote district in India. Your immediate and most critical task is to lead a crucial district-wide Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination drive, aimed at achieving 100% immunization coverage among children aged 9 months to 15 years. The success of this drive is vital for the collective health of thousands of children and for the district's overall health indicators, especially with the impending monsoon season posing additional health challenges. However, in one of the largest and most traditional villages in your district, you encounter spiritual leader, firmly believe that vaccinations are an intrusion by malevolent spirits, an attempt by external forces to control their population, or will cause infertility in their children. They insist that their traditional herbal remedies and ritualistic blessings are sufficient protection. This spiritual leader, a genuinely well-meaning but unyielding figure, sincerely believes these vaccinations are harmful and has publicly advised his followers against them, citing anecdotal 'failures' and ancient prophecies. His word is paramount for the community's adherence to traditional ways of life. This has led to an almost complete boycott of the vaccination camps in the village, despite extensive awareness campaigns. Your health workers, some of whom are local and fear social ostracization or even physical harm, are facing intense hostility. The state health department is exerting immense pressure to achieve targets, warning of severe consequences for any district failing to meet the immunization goals. Simultaneously, they strictly caution against any use of force that could lead to public unrest, emphasizing the need for 'consensus-based' public health. An impending large annual fair, which will draw crowds from multiple villages and regions, heightens the immediate and severe risk of a rapid MR outbreak if this village remains unvaccinated, posing a grave threat to the wider district and potentially beyond. (a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in the above case. (b) What are the immediate options available to you to overcome this resistance? (c) What long-term strategies and systemic reforms would you suggest to address the pervasive influence of superstition and foster a scientific temperament for sustainable public health outcomes? (Answer in 250 words)
GS4 · Case studies on the above issues GS4 · Aptitude & foundational values for civil service — integrity, impartiality, non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication, empathy, tolerance & compassion
| Topper | Rank | Source | Copy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abhigyan Khaund | — | VisionIAS | p.52 |
| Akshat Baldwa | — | VisionIAS | p.52 |