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. ...

 By Dr. Farzeen Unit I: Women’s Health Issues – Past and Present 1.  Introduction — Why Study Women’s Health Separately? Women’s health is shaped by both biological and social determinants . Beyond reproduction, it includes nutritional, psychological, occupational, and ageing-related issues . Health inequities arise from patriarchy, poverty, cultural taboos, restricted mobility, and unequal access to healthcare . A life-course perspective is essential — adolescent health impacts reproductive health, which in turn influences women’s mid-life and old age health outcomes. 2. Historical Context of Women’s Health (a) Health and Reproduction in Traditional Societies Women’s health was historically perceived through the biological lens of reproduction and childbearing . Primary focus: fertility, pregnancy, childbirth, and lactation. The identity of women was closely tied to their reproductive roles, often neglecting their overall well-being. (b) Traditio...

 By Dr. Farzeen Unit III: Democracy in Action Consist:- 1. Democracy In Action: Electoral Process, Voting Rights, Role of The Election Commission 2. Participating Governance: Panchayat Raj & Local Self Government Structure --------------------------------------------------------- 1. Electoral Process Meaning: The electoral process is the procedure through which citizens of a country choose their representatives in the government. In India, elections are the foundation of democracy. Features of Indian Electoral Process: Free and Fair Elections: Elections must be impartial without influence of money, power, or corruption. Universal Adult Franchise: Every adult citizen (18 years and above) has the right to vote, irrespective of caste, religion, gender, wealth, or education. Regular Intervals: Elections are held at fixed intervals – Lok Sabha (every 5 years), State Legislative Assemblies, Local Bodies (Panchayats, Municipalities). Secret Ballot: Voters cas...