The Indian government has unveiled a comprehensive report titled “Economic Case for Investment in the Well-being of Adolescents in India.” The report highlights the country’s progress in adolescent health and well-being while emphasizing the need for continued investment in this critical age group. A press release on this report was issued on July 25, 2024.
Key Points
Government Commitment
With 253 million adolescents, India has the world’s largest adolescent population. The government has underscored its dedication to adolescent well-being through initiatives like the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) and the School Health and Wellness Programme.
The government is actively collaborating with NGOs, international agencies, and youth representatives to address adolescent challenges effectively.
Economic Benefits
The report underscores the economic advantages of investing in adolescent health and education, emphasizing increased GDP and reduced social costs.
Digital Health Focus
The upcoming U-WIN platform, modeled after Co-WIN, aims to digitize health records and improve adolescent healthcare monitoring.
The report emphasizes the importance of continued investment in adolescent well-being to achieve national and global development goals. It calls for further efforts to address challenges like child marriage, mental health, and education, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
By prioritizing the health and empowerment of adolescents, India aims to build a strong and prosperous future for its young population.
