Unit- IV:  “Civic Consciousness and Democratic Responsibility” are: Political Obligation Commitment Sensitization Tolerance Accountability 🏛️ Civic Consciousness and Democratic Responsibility 🌿 Meaning of Civic Consciousness Civic consciousness means being aware of one’s rights and duties as a citizen and understanding how our actions affect society and the nation. It is about realizing that citizenship is not only about enjoying rights but also about actively contributing to the community, respecting laws, and promoting social harmony. In simple words, it means: “Knowing what is right for the nation — and doing your part to make it better.” 📘 Meaning of Democratic Responsibility Democratic responsibility refers to the duties and moral obligations of citizens to protect democratic values such as freedom, equality, tolerance, and justice . It means participating in public life responsibly — by voting, questioning leaders, respecting diversit...

By Dr. Farzeen Unit-4 Global Perspective on Women’s Health I. Introduction: Understanding Women’s Health in Global Context Women’s health is not limited to biological differences between men and women. It is a multidimensional concept , encompassing physical, mental, reproductive, and social well-being — influenced by gender inequality, poverty, education, culture, and policy frameworks. Globally, women face unique health challenges due to: Biological roles (pregnancy, childbirth, menopause). Socio-economic barriers (discrimination, limited healthcare access). Cultural practices (female genital mutilation, early marriage). Political and economic inequalities that limit decision-making power. II. Key Global Determinants of Women’s Health Social Determinants of Health (SDH): Education, income, nutrition, gender discrimination, and access to healthcare shape women’s health outcomes. The WHO identifies social determinants as key to reducing health inequit...

By Dr. Farzeen Unit III- Citizen Advocacy 1. Right to Information (RTI) 2. Citizen Charter 3. Public Grievance System Citizen Advocacy: Right to Information (RTI) 1. Meaning of Citizen Advocacy Citizen Advocacy means empowering citizens to play an active role in governance by demanding transparency, accountability, and responsiveness from the government. It ensures that citizens are not passive recipients of government policies but active participants in decision-making and monitoring. RTI is one of the most powerful instruments of citizen advocacy in India. 2. Right to Information (RTI): Concept The Right to Information Act, 2005 gives every citizen the legal right to access information from public authorities. Based on the principle: “Democracy requires an informed citizenry.” RTI promotes transparency, accountability, and participation in governance. Constitutional Basis Rooted in Article 19(1)(a) : Freedom of Speech & Expression. Citizens cannot expr...

 By Dr. Farzeen Unit III: Comparative Study of Rural and Urban Areas 1. Rural Women’s Health Rural women’s health in India reflects a complex interaction of socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural barriers . Despite progress under various government schemes, rural areas continue to face structural inequalities in access to healthcare. A. Dependency on Traditional Healers In rural areas, especially in remote and hilly regions like Uttarakhand , the first line of treatment often comes from traditional healers, faith-based healers (ojhas, tantriks), or untrained local practitioners (quacks) . Reasons for dependency: Lack of nearby hospitals or trained doctors. Cultural beliefs in traditional remedies. Low literacy and limited awareness of modern medical benefits. Implication: Women delay seeking professional medical help during pregnancy or illness, leading to complications. 📌 Example (Uttarakhand) : In villages located above 1500–2000 meters altit...

 By Dr. Farzeen Unit II: Government Initiatives in Women’s Health 1. Constitutional and Legal Framework A. Constitutional Provisions and Women’s Health 1. Fundamental Rights Article 21: Right to Life and Personal Liberty The Supreme Court of India has interpreted “right to life” as including the right to health, medical care, and a dignified life . Landmark judgment: Paschim Banga Khet Mazdoor Samity vs. State of West Bengal (1996) – held that the government is obligated to provide adequate medical facilities. For women, this right covers: Safe maternal health services. Access to reproductive health facilities. Protection from unsafe sterilizations, abortions, and medical negligence. Article 14: Right to Equality & Article 15: Prohibition of Discrimination Women cannot be discriminated against in accessing healthcare facilities. Article 15(3) allows the state to make special provisions for women and children , including in healthcare. ...