Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Rampura’s situation exemplifies the persistent socio-economic marginalization faced by many tribal communities in India. Extreme backwardness and poverty are not merely economic indicators but are deeply intertwined with ethical failures – failures of distributive justice, social inclusion, and the realization of fundamental rights. The vulnerability of minor girls in such contexts is particularly acute, facing risks of exploitation, child marriage, and limited access to education and healthcare. Addressing this requires a holistic approach that acknowledges the intersectionality of caste, gender, and poverty, and prioritizes the agency and well-being of the affected population.
Ethical Issues in Rampura
Several ethical issues are prominent in Rampura:
- Violation of Human Dignity: Abject poverty denies basic necessities, violating the inherent dignity of the tribal population.
- Social Injustice: Systemic discrimination and historical marginalization contribute to the district’s backwardness.
- Gender Inequality: Minor girls are disproportionately affected by poverty, facing increased vulnerability to exploitation and limited opportunities.
- Lack of Access to Rights: Limited access to education, healthcare, and legal redressal mechanisms denies citizens their fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
- Failure of Governance: Ineffective implementation of welfare schemes and lack of accountability contribute to the perpetuation of poverty.
Specific Steps for Ameliorating Conditions of Minor Girls
A multi-pronged strategy is needed to improve the lives of minor girls:
- Education:
- Establish residential schools with culturally sensitive curricula.
- Provide scholarships and incentives to encourage enrollment and retention (e.g., KGBV – Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya).
- Address barriers to education like distance, safety concerns, and societal norms.
- Healthcare:
- Strengthen primary healthcare centers with trained female health workers.
- Implement targeted health programs addressing malnutrition, anemia, and reproductive health.
- Ensure access to quality antenatal and postnatal care.
- Protection from Exploitation:
- Strengthen Child Protection Committees (CPCs) and ensure effective enforcement of laws against child marriage and trafficking (Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006).
- Raise awareness about legal rights and available support services.
- Establish shelter homes and rehabilitation centers for rescued girls.
- Empowerment Programs:
- Skill development training programs tailored to local needs and market demands.
- Promote self-help groups (SHGs) to foster economic independence.
- Mentorship programs connecting girls with successful role models.
Improving the Overall Economic Scenario
Sustainable economic development requires a holistic approach:
- Agriculture & Livelihoods:
- Promote sustainable agricultural practices suited to the local environment.
- Provide access to credit, irrigation, and market linkages.
- Support diversification of livelihoods through horticulture, animal husbandry, and forest-based enterprises.
- Infrastructure Development:
- Improve road connectivity, electricity supply, and access to clean water and sanitation.
- Invest in digital infrastructure to bridge the digital divide.
- Skill Development & Employment:
- Establish skill development centers offering training in relevant trades.
- Promote entrepreneurship through microfinance and incubation support.
- Attract investment in local industries.
- Forest Rights & Resource Management:
- Ensure effective implementation of the Forest Rights Act, 2006, empowering tribal communities to manage and benefit from forest resources.
- Promote sustainable forest management practices.
- Participatory Governance:
- Strengthen local self-governance institutions (Panchayats) and ensure their effective participation in planning and implementation of development programs.
- Promote transparency and accountability in governance.
A convergence of various schemes like MGNREGA, National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), and Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Yojana (PMJAY) is crucial for maximizing impact.
Conclusion
Addressing the challenges in Rampura requires a sustained and integrated approach rooted in ethical principles of justice, equity, and inclusion. Empowering minor girls and fostering sustainable economic development are inextricably linked. By prioritizing participatory governance, investing in human capital, and leveraging local resources, Rampura can move towards a more equitable and prosperous future. Continuous monitoring, evaluation, and adaptation of interventions are essential to ensure long-term success and prevent the recurrence of systemic failures.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.