Day: May 12, 2022

Microfinance as a tool for financial inclusion

Traditional microfinance and borrower welfare - IGC Growth Brief

Indian economy is one of the developing economies in the world and is expected to reach new heights in the coming decades. But a sizeable population of this economy particularly the poor, underprivileged, disadvantaged and vulnerable group of people does not have access to most basic financial services. Formal lending agencies often left the poor unbanked on account of high levels of transaction cost incurred in lending to the poor. Their access to formal banking channels was constrained to their resource base as well as the nature of formal credit institutions. The demand for collateral security that a micro- borrower did not possess, the credit worthiness of the poor, high transaction cost due to difficulties in screening, and unattractive business proposition due to tiny savings and loans, were the deterrents faced by the formal lending institutions in loaning to the poor. Consequently, the poor continued to be dependent on informal sector lending, paying exorbitant rates of interest or underselling the product and their labor power to the creditor. Formal financial system was less accommodative to women.

The realization that this sort of unequitable development could not lead to the well -being of the society raised the need for financial inclusion. Financial inclusion is delivery of financial services like bank accounts, savings product, remittances and payment services, insurance, financial advisory services and micro credit to weaker sections in rural and urban areas at an affordable cost. It also involves actions to provide access to formal financial system like nationalized banks. Government of India and Reserve bank of India have taken series of measures and have experimented various alternatives to take financial services to the masses, but the task is stupendous, hence the pace of work should be accelerated and sustained. Since the formal banking system was limited to collateral based lending, there arose a need for developing a new system for financing the marginalized sections.

Microfinance by providing small loans and facilities to those who have been excluded from commercial financial services, has wider scope in the area of financial inclusion. The basic idea of microfinance is that poor people are ready and willing to pull themselves out of poverty if given access to economic inputs. The need for informality in credit delivery and easy access is denoted by the fast growth of microfinance providers in reaching out to small borrowers. The major microfinance providers in India are SHG-Bank linkage model, Non- Banking Financial Institutions and some trusts. Among these initiatives Self Help Groups have emerged out as an efficient alternative as they are uniquely positioned among the beneficiaries. Many of them operate over a limited geographical area, have a greater understanding among the rural poor, enjoy greater acceptability among the people and have flexibility in operations providing a level of comfort to their clientele. This fills the existing gap between formal financial networks and unfinanced poor weaker sections which is the intention of financial inclusion.

The SHG-bank linkage program gained extensive acceptance amongst NGO community and bankers. Establishing one million SHGs, the NABARD envisioned covering one third of the rural population in India. By the year 2002–03, promulgations were made for linking 200,000 SHGs. Visually perceiving SHG-bank linkage program emerging as a major way of banking with the poor in the ensuing years, the task force on microfinance estimated that at least 25,000 bank branches, 4000 NGOs, and 2000 federations of SHGs involving 0.10 million personnel of these institutions would scale up microfinance to a great magnitude.

For example, in Kerala, Kudumbashree Mission has emerged as one of the renowned Self-help group initiatives on a worldwide basis. Even though it was incorporated with the mission of women empowerment, it has grown out as source for economic empowerment for the marginalized sections of the society. It has outnumbered several other financial institutions in the case of provision of microfinance and has emerged out as a reliable tool for financial inclusion.

Microfinance as a tool for financial inclusion

Traditional microfinance and borrower welfare - IGC Growth Brief

Indian economy is one of the developing economies in the world and is expected to reach new heights in the coming decades. But a sizeable population of this economy particularly the poor, underprivileged, disadvantaged and vulnerable group of people does not have access to most basic financial services. Formal lending agencies often left the poor unbanked on account of high levels of transaction cost incurred in lending to the poor. Their access to formal banking channels was constrained to their resource base as well as the nature of formal credit institutions. The demand for collateral security that a micro- borrower did not possess, the credit worthiness of the poor, high transaction cost due to difficulties in screening, and unattractive business proposition due to tiny savings and loans, were the deterrents faced by the formal lending institutions in loaning to the poor. Consequently, the poor continued to be dependent on informal sector lending, paying exorbitant rates of interest or underselling the product and their labor power to the creditor. Formal financial system was less accommodative to women.

The realization that this sort of unequitable development could not lead to the well -being of the society raised the need for financial inclusion. Financial inclusion is delivery of financial services like bank accounts, savings product, remittances and payment services, insurance, financial advisory services and micro credit to weaker sections in rural and urban areas at an affordable cost. It also involves actions to provide access to formal financial system like nationalized banks. Government of India and Reserve bank of India have taken series of measures and have experimented various alternatives to take financial services to the masses, but the task is stupendous, hence the pace of work should be accelerated and sustained. Since the formal banking system was limited to collateral based lending, there arose a need for developing a new system for financing the marginalized sections.

Microfinance by providing small loans and facilities to those who have been excluded from commercial financial services, has wider scope in the area of financial inclusion. The basic idea of microfinance is that poor people are ready and willing to pull themselves out of poverty if given access to economic inputs. The need for informality in credit delivery and easy access is denoted by the fast growth of microfinance providers in reaching out to small borrowers. The major microfinance providers in India are SHG-Bank linkage model, Non- Banking Financial Institutions and some trusts. Among these initiatives Self Help Groups have emerged out as an efficient alternative as they are uniquely positioned among the beneficiaries. Many of them operate over a limited geographical area, have a greater understanding among the rural poor, enjoy greater acceptability among the people and have flexibility in operations providing a level of comfort to their clientele. This fills the existing gap between formal financial networks and unfinanced poor weaker sections which is the intention of financial inclusion.

The SHG-bank linkage program gained extensive acceptance amongst NGO community and bankers. Establishing one million SHGs, the NABARD envisioned covering one third of the rural population in India. By the year 2002–03, promulgations were made for linking 200,000 SHGs. Visually perceiving SHG-bank linkage program emerging as a major way of banking with the poor in the ensuing years, the task force on microfinance estimated that at least 25,000 bank branches, 4000 NGOs, and 2000 federations of SHGs involving 0.10 million personnel of these institutions would scale up microfinance to a great magnitude.

For example, in Kerala, Kudumbashree Mission has emerged as one of the renowned Self-help group initiatives on a worldwide basis. Even though it was incorporated with the mission of women empowerment, it has grown out as source for economic empowerment for the marginalized sections of the society. It has outnumbered several other financial institutions in the case of provision of microfinance and has emerged out as a reliable tool for financial inclusion.

Healthy alternatives to coffee.

Golden milk

Made with several spices including ginger, cinnamon, turmeric and black pepper, this caffeine-free traditional Indian drink is a comforting yet invigorating concoction that’s sure to wake your senses in the morning. Cardamom, vanilla and honey can also be added to the mix.

Apple cider

Cider made with real apple cider vinegar is great for supporting digestion, since apple cider vinegar contains enzymes that can help balance blood sugar levels, control your appetite, and potentially ward off issues like heartburn and indigestion.

Coffee is the go-to morning beverage for many, while others choose not to drink it for a host of reasons.For some, the high amount of caffeine — 95 mg per serving — can cause nervousness and agitation, also known as “the jitters.” For others, coffee can cause digestive distress and headaches. Many simply don’t care for the bitter taste or are bored with their usual morning cup of Joe. Drinking too much coffee can be detrimental because of its high caffeine content. “Too much caffeine may pose a danger to your health,” the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns. People are now are slowly dropping coffee from their daily diet and are looking for healthier beverages. This is a sign for you to rethink your caffeine intake. There are several other drinks that can help you stay awake in the morning aside from coffee. They are-

Hot cacao

Brewed cacao is a low caffeine drink that is rich in theobromine, a mild central nervous system stimulant. It offers all the “decadent flavors of dark chocolate, without any of the sugar and fat, and virtually no calories,” licensed dietitian/nutritionist Monica Reinagel wrote in an article for Food & Nutrition.

Lemon Water

 Lemon water is a great way to start your day. It’s calorie- and caffeine-free and provides an ample dose of vitamin C.As an antioxidant, vitamin C plays a role in your immune system and protects your skin from sun damage. It’s essential for creating collagen, a protein that provides the basic structure for your skin, tendons and ligaments.

You can also add other fruits and herbs for a variety of flavors — cucumbers, mint, watermelon and basil are some popular options.

Herbal tea

Herbal tea like rooibos ( from South Africa) and chai tea (from India )can be great healthy alternatives to caffeine. Most herbal teas are caffeine-free, although it depends on the exact kind.They may help to support your energy levels by keeping you calm and aiding in sleep quality, and by supporting digestive/gut health. Unlike coffee ,teas are  low in tannin antioxidants, which can be beneficial but also interfere with the absorption of iron. Despite a low tannin content it provides a substantial amount of other antioxidants .

Kombucha

Kombucha is made by fermenting black tea with bacteria, yeast and sugar.After fermentation, kombucha contains probiotics, acetic acid and antioxidants — all of which may have health benefits .kombucha may boost your immune system, improve cholesterol levels and blood glucose levels in people with diabetes

Healthy alternatives to coffee.

Golden milk

Made with several spices including ginger, cinnamon, turmeric and black pepper, this caffeine-free traditional Indian drink is a comforting yet invigorating concoction that’s sure to wake your senses in the morning. Cardamom, vanilla and honey can also be added to the mix.

Apple cider

Cider made with real apple cider vinegar is great for supporting digestion, since apple cider vinegar contains enzymes that can help balance blood sugar levels, control your appetite, and potentially ward off issues like heartburn and indigestion.

Coffee is the go-to morning beverage for many, while others choose not to drink it for a host of reasons.For some, the high amount of caffeine — 95 mg per serving — can cause nervousness and agitation, also known as “the jitters.” For others, coffee can cause digestive distress and headaches. Many simply don’t care for the bitter taste or are bored with their usual morning cup of Joe. Drinking too much coffee can be detrimental because of its high caffeine content. “Too much caffeine may pose a danger to your health,” the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns. People are now are slowly dropping coffee from their daily diet and are looking for healthier beverages. This is a sign for you to rethink your caffeine intake. There are several other drinks that can help you stay awake in the morning aside from coffee. They are-

Hot cacao

Brewed cacao is a low caffeine drink that is rich in theobromine, a mild central nervous system stimulant. It offers all the “decadent flavors of dark chocolate, without any of the sugar and fat, and virtually no calories,” licensed dietitian/nutritionist Monica Reinagel wrote in an article for Food & Nutrition.

Lemon Water

 Lemon water is a great way to start your day. It’s calorie- and caffeine-free and provides an ample dose of vitamin C.As an antioxidant, vitamin C plays a role in your immune system and protects your skin from sun damage. It’s essential for creating collagen, a protein that provides the basic structure for your skin, tendons and ligaments.

You can also add other fruits and herbs for a variety of flavors — cucumbers, mint, watermelon and basil are some popular options.

Herbal tea

Herbal tea like rooibos ( from South Africa) and chai tea (from India )can be great healthy alternatives to caffeine. Most herbal teas are caffeine-free, although it depends on the exact kind.They may help to support your energy levels by keeping you calm and aiding in sleep quality, and by supporting digestive/gut health. Unlike coffee ,teas are  low in tannin antioxidants, which can be beneficial but also interfere with the absorption of iron. Despite a low tannin content it provides a substantial amount of other antioxidants .

Kombucha

Kombucha is made by fermenting black tea with bacteria, yeast and sugar.After fermentation, kombucha contains probiotics, acetic acid and antioxidants — all of which may have health benefits .kombucha may boost your immune system, improve cholesterol levels and blood glucose levels in people with diabetes

Narmada  Bachao Andolan

In 1985, Narmada  bachao andolan became an Indian social ,and environmental movement. Narmada Bachao Andolan is the most powerful mass movement, started in 1985, against the construction of huge dam on the Narmada river. Narmada is the India’s largest west flowing river, which supports a large variety of people with distinguished culture and tradition ranging from the indigenous (tribal) people inhabited in the jungles here to the large number of rural population. The proposed Sardar Sarovar Dam and Narmada Sagar will displace more than 250,000 people. Narmada bachao andolan was led by native tribals, farmers environmentalists and Human Rights activist. Narmada bachao andolan was against and number of large Dam projects across the river Narmada, which to the states of Gujarat Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. The big fight is over the resettlement or the rehabilitation of these people. The two proposals are already under construction, supported by US$550 million loan by the World Bank. There are plans to build over 3000 big and small dams along the river. This protest, to express the views against a large number of dams being contrasted near Narmada river, brought a large number of adivasis, farmers, environmentalists, and human rights activists together. The movement involved prominent celebrities and people went on hunger strikes to show their support for the cause. The decision is still pending, though the court initially ruled the decision in the Andolan’s favor, thereby effecting an immediate stoppage of work at the dam and directing the concerned states to first complete the rehabilitation and replacement process. Later the court allowed the construction to proceed.

It is a multi crore project that will generate a big revenue for the government. The Narmada Valley Development plan is the the most promised and most challenging plan in the history of India. The proponents are of the view that it will produce 1450 MW of electricity and pure drinking water to 40 million people covering thousand of villages and towns. Some of the dams have been already been completed such as Tawa and Bargi Dams. But the opponents says that this hydro project will devastate human lives and bio diversity by destroying thousand of acres of forests and agricultural land. On the other hand it will overall deprive thousands of people of their livelihood. They believe that the water and energy could be provided to the people through alternative technological means that would be ecologically beneficial.

Medha Patkar and Baba Amte together let a series of protests, some of which failed while the others achieved success. In September 1989, Amte led a 60,000-person anti-dam NBA rally in Harsud—a town of 20,000 people in Madhya Pradesh that faced submersion. In May 1990, a massive NBA five-daydharna (sit-in) at then-Prime Minister V. P. Singh’s residence in New Delhi forced the Prime Minister to agree to ‘‘reconsider’’ the project. In December 1990, Amte, along with 5,000 protestors, began the Narmada Jan Vikas Sangharsh Yatra (Narmada people’s progress struggle march), marching over a hundred kilometers from Amte’s headquarters near Barwani in Madhya Pradesh to Ferkuva on the Madhya Pradesh–Gujarat border. The government reacted by deploying the Gujarati police force and by bussing in thousands of governmentsupported pro-dam demonstrators from urban centers in Gujarat. Following the government’s announcement that rising waters from the dam would begin to submerge villages, domestic protest intensified and with it the resulting backlash from the state. On January 5, 1991, Amte began a ‘‘dharna [sit-in] unto death.’’

The most popular slogans of the NBA were Vikas Chahiye, vinash nahin! (‘‘We want development, not destruction’’) and Koi nahi hatega, bandh nahi banega! (‘‘No one will move, the dam will not be built’’).Led by one of the prominent leader Medha Patkar, it has now been turned into the International protest, gaining support from NGO’S all around the globe. Protestors are agitating the issue through the mass media, hunger strikes, massive marches, rallies and the through the on screen of several documentary films. Although they have been protesting peacefully, but they been harassed, arrested and beaten up by the police several times. The Narmada Bachao Andolan has been pressurizing the world bank to withdraw its loan from the project through media .The strong protests throughout the country not only made impact on the local people but has also influenced the several famous celebrities like film star Aamir Khan , who has made open efforts to support Narmada Bachao Andolan. He said he only want that those who have been rendered homeless should be given a roof. He pleaded to the common people to take part in the moment and come up with the best possible solutions. .

 In october 2010 Supreme Court approved construction in decided that the height of the Dam to be raised 90m. This is much higher than 88m which anti Dam activist demanded but it is definitely lower than the proposed height of 130 m. As the World Bank withdrew its financing in 1933 the project is now largely financed by the state governments and market borrowings ,now the project is expected to be fully completed by 2025.

Narmada Bachao Andolan

In 1985, Narmada  bachao andolan became an Indian social ,and environmental movement. Narmada Bachao Andolan is the most powerful mass movement, started in 1985, against the construction of huge dam on the Narmada river. Narmada is the India’s largest west flowing river, which supports a large variety of people with distinguished culture and tradition ranging from the indigenous (tribal) people inhabited in the jungles here to the large number of rural population. The proposed Sardar Sarovar Dam and Narmada Sagar will displace more than 250,000 people. Narmada bachao andolan was led by native tribals, farmers environmentalists and Human Rights activist. Narmada bachao andolan was against and number of large Dam projects across the river Narmada, which to the states of Gujarat Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. The big fight is over the resettlement or the rehabilitation of these people. The two proposals are already under construction, supported by US$550 million loan by the World Bank. There are plans to build over 3000 big and small dams along the river. This protest, to express the views against a large number of dams being contrasted near Narmada river, brought a large number of adivasis, farmers, environmentalists, and human rights activists together. The movement involved prominent celebrities and people went on hunger strikes to show their support for the cause. The decision is still pending, though the court initially ruled the decision in the Andolan’s favor, thereby effecting an immediate stoppage of work at the dam and directing the concerned states to first complete the rehabilitation and replacement process. Later the court allowed the construction to proceed.

It is a multi crore project that will generate a big revenue for the government. The Narmada Valley Development plan is the the most promised and most challenging plan in the history of India. The proponents are of the view that it will produce 1450 MW of electricity and pure drinking water to 40 million people covering thousand of villages and towns. Some of the dams have been already been completed such as Tawa and Bargi Dams. But the opponents says that this hydro project will devastate human lives and bio diversity by destroying thousand of acres of forests and agricultural land. On the other hand it will overall deprive thousands of people of their livelihood. They believe that the water and energy could be provided to the people through alternative technological means that would be ecologically beneficial.

Medha Patkar and Baba Amte together let a series of protests, some of which failed while the others achieved success. In September 1989, Amte led a 60,000-person anti-dam NBA rally in Harsud—a town of 20,000 people in Madhya Pradesh that faced submersion. In May 1990, a massive NBA five-daydharna (sit-in) at then-Prime Minister V. P. Singh’s residence in New Delhi forced the Prime Minister to agree to ‘‘reconsider’’ the project. In December 1990, Amte, along with 5,000 protestors, began the Narmada Jan Vikas Sangharsh Yatra (Narmada people’s progress struggle march), marching over a hundred kilometers from Amte’s headquarters near Barwani in Madhya Pradesh to Ferkuva on the Madhya Pradesh–Gujarat border. The government reacted by deploying the Gujarati police force and by bussing in thousands of governmentsupported pro-dam demonstrators from urban centers in Gujarat. Following the government’s announcement that rising waters from the dam would begin to submerge villages, domestic protest intensified and with it the resulting backlash from the state. On January 5, 1991, Amte began a ‘‘dharna [sit-in] unto death.’’

The most popular slogans of the NBA were Vikas Chahiye, vinash nahin! (‘‘We want development, not destruction’’) and Koi nahi hatega, bandh nahi banega! (‘‘No one will move, the dam will not be built’’).Led by one of the prominent leader Medha Patkar, it has now been turned into the International protest, gaining support from NGO’S all around the globe. Protestors are agitating the issue through the mass media, hunger strikes, massive marches, rallies and the through the on screen of several documentary films. Although they have been protesting peacefully, but they been harassed, arrested and beaten up by the police several times. The Narmada Bachao Andolan has been pressurizing the world bank to withdraw its loan from the project through media .The strong protests throughout the country not only made impact on the local people but has also influenced the several famous celebrities like film star Aamir Khan , who has made open efforts to support Narmada Bachao Andolan. He said he only want that those who have been rendered homeless should be given a roof. He pleaded to the common people to take part in the moment and come up with the best possible solutions. .

 In october 2010 Supreme Court approved construction in decided that the height of the Dam to be raised 90m. This is much higher than 88m which anti Dam activist demanded but it is definitely lower than the proposed height of 130 m. As the World Bank withdrew its financing in 1933 the project is now largely financed by the state governments and market borrowings ,now the project is expected to be fully completed by 2025.

I want to paint you

“… I want to paint you.”

She was surprised, sure enough. But she was also curious. Her face concealed nothing, and that was what fascinated me. As she walked through the gallery, each piece evoked something unique from inside her, and she did not bother to mask it.

Anyone could read the critique in her face, if they took the time. It is an artist’s dream – to clearly see the emotions we inspire with our work.Many had passed by my work since the showing began, pausing for a moment, offering a quick word of praise. I didn’t approach them. But, when she came to my painting, she lingered.

At first, she kept a sort of distance, taking in the portrait from optimum perspective.Then, she moved closer. Closer, still.

Narrowing her eyes, following the strokes of brush that formed arms and legs, and the arch of the neck. But, instead of smiling, like the others, she was disturbed. There was a distinct anxiety resting in her eyes. And that anxiety shattered me faster than any editorial the local paper had ever dished out. Editorials can be shredded with triumphant pleasure. But in the slight furrow of her brow, and the downward tug of her lips, this woman single handedly brought my heartbeat to a most uncomfortable rhythm. It was this distinct discomfort that pulled me from my place of observation and motivated me to speak.

“Something wrong?” I asked. I startled her, but she smiled and returned her attention to the portrait.“I was just looking at this dancer,” she replied.“Yes, but you seemed… upset?” I ventured. “What is it about the dancer?”

She darted her eyes at me for a moment, but only long enough to decide to continue our conversation.“It’s just, I feel sorry for her,” she explained.“Sorry?” I wasn’t sure what to think, really. “Why?”

“Because, I think she is lonely.”

That threw me off guard. I was accustomed to the usual praise.

“Beautiful.”

“Profound!”

“Truly, one of a kind.”

It grew tiresome in a way, but it was comfortably expected. The local venues were always thrilled with my offerings, but over time, my enthusiasm was reduced to contempt. When my secretary had first booked this showing for my latest piece, I almost threw my coffee at her. I was exhausted with the weekend shows at The Courtyard. True, they had conjured a good deal of business as of late, but I felt no satisfaction at the end of the day. All I could hope for were a few simple remarks, no real conversation.

No true appreciation.I had little expectation for this showing. My most recent work was a portrait of a ballet dancer. A studio had commissioned it, but agreed to let me display it at the show before delivery. It was simple in concept, but stood out amid the offerings of that particular show. Amid the bulky sculptures and spattering of interpretive study, my dancer’s clean lines were in stark contrast. Dark strokes outlined her body against white canvas, highlighting her single color.A pale violet tutu.“Please, what makes you say that?” I pressed herThis time, she turned to face me, surely intending to end our discussion, or perhaps threaten to call security. I had to save myself quickly.“Forgive me, it’s just, I am Stephen Erik,” I said. Her eyes widened, right on cue. “You mean, you’re the–”“Yes, I’m the one responsible for this… sad little dancer,” I replied, through somewhat gritted teeth.Sad. Sad was not the word I had imagined when bringing this piece to life. There was a soft laugh mingled with her smile, and I thought I saw a faint blush in her cheeks.“It’s wonderful to meet you, Mister Erik. I always hope to see something of yours here at the gallery, and I’ve never been disappointed.”At this, I felt I was able to breathe again. “And, you are?” I prodded.“Grace.”“Well now, Grace, please, indulge me? Why do you say the dancer is lonely?”For a moment, she hesitated, and I almost regretted revealing my identity as the artist. I’ve discovered that nice people are often afraid to offend the creator of the work. Perhaps they think we mix our own blood into the paint, or clay, or watercolors. I have never had such an attachment, although others surely have. More than spared feelings, I always craved true reaction. And, happily for me, Grace could not taper her true impressions.“She holds herself tightly. Like no one else has ever held her before,” she told me.I looked again at the portrait.

Yes, her arms were crossed over her chest, and her feet tightly planted in fifth position. I had sketched her hands myself, and yet, I had not quite noticed how tightly her fingers grasped. Or, perhaps I had done this.Perhaps I had subconsciously slipped my own hands into those of the dancer.“That’s quite an observation,” I replied. “Is that all?”“No,” she admitted. “The color. Purple. It’s such a lonely color.”I chuckled a little. “As opposed to, shall we say, yellow?”Her eyes darted back to me, wholly unamused. “Yellow can be lonely, too.”“Oh, really? How so? Tell me this philosophy of yellow,” I implored.“Yellow is a friendly color. It has lots of friends. Lots of people flock to yellow, because it smiles so much. And then, when yellow cries, they don’t know what to do. Because yellow is the one who smiles. So they just wait. Maybe they hand yellow some tissues or something. But it’s not what yellow really needs. So yellow is lonely, too,” she replied.

“Even surrounded by people who love them.”I was silent for a long while. I didn’t really know what to say. So much thought, so much perception into a color that rarely graced the edge of my palette. “And… purple?”She took a breath. “I think purple holds all of its feelings inside itself, until it is alone. And then, it cries. But nobody sees.”At that moment, I knew.

I wanted to paint this

International Nurses Day 2022: A Few Facts 

On this International Nurses Day on 12 May, I offer my salute to all Nurses including Florence Nightingale as when I was born (a little more than 65 years ago) in addition to others a nurse took care of me to take a breath in this world.  So, I have huge regard for all medical staff as my father completed his MBBS in the early 1950s rendered his selfless service to human beings in general and the poor in particular. 

This year like the earlier two years because of the awful impact of COVID19, people of the world irrespective of rich or poor, caste, creed, religion, language, etc., have been observing the services rendered by the nurses along with other medical staff. Even a few nurses have passed away while nursing the patients and many have been infected with the coronavirus.  

Anyway, every year 12 May is celebrated as International Nurses Day in commemoration of the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale. It may be mentioned here that Florence Nightingale was born on 12 May 1820 in a wealthy and well-connected British family at the Villa Colombia. She was a British social reformer and statistician, and the founder of contemporary nursing. Moreover, she was a great human being and had feelings for sufferers, and for this reason, she came to prominence while serving as a manager and trainer of nurses during the Crimean War, in which she organized to care for wounded soldiers.

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) has announced the new theme for International Nurses Day (IND) 2022: Nurses: A Voice to Lead – Invest in nursing and respect rights to secure global health, focusing on the need to protect, support, and invest in the nursing profession to strengthen health systems around the world.  According to the publication, “Nurses: A Voice to Lead Invest in nursing and respect rights to secure global health”   by the INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF NURSES (2022)

The benefits of protecting the safety of nurses include the following:

• Reduced hospital-acquired infections

• Greater productivity, increased job satisfaction, and improved retention of nurses

• Improved workplace health and safety, which improves patient safety and patient outcomes

• Supporting stronger and more resilient health systems

• Reduction in workplace induced injury and illnesses and improved health and wellbeing

• Improved return on investment.

Also, it is evident from the publication that “WHO estimates that from January 2020 to May 2021 at least 180,000 health and care workers died as a result of COVID-19 (WHO 2021b). These deaths are a terrible tragedy. In addition to the human toll, the ever-expanding ripple effect is the growing and irreplaceable gap in the health workforce leading the world’s pandemic response”.

The President International Council of Nurses Dr. Pamela Cipriano said: “Nurses have suffered tremendously throughout the pandemic. They have been unnecessarily exposed to the virus, faced attacks from the public, suffered from extreme workloads, and continue to be underpaid and undervalued. If governments continue to put off investing in the health workforce, it will be to the detriment of health systems everywhere. There is no health without a healthy workforce!

‘The International Nurses Day case studies that we have been collecting portray the incredible work of nurses, and our IND theme for 2022 will continue to promote nursing work and fight for nurses’ rights to a safe working environment, decent wages, and full participation in decision-making.”

Florence Nightingale although has passed away on 13 August 1910 but will remain alive in the hearts and memories of millions in the world for her humanitarian service.

.

International Nurses Day 2022: A Few Facts 

On this International Nurses Day on 12 May, I offer my salute to all Nurses including Florence Nightingale as when I was born (a little more than 65 years ago) in addition to others a nurse took care of me to take a breath in this world.  So, I have huge regard for all medical staff as my father completed his MBBS in the early 1950s rendered his selfless service to human beings in general and the poor in particular. 

This year like the earlier two years because of the awful impact of COVID19, people of the world irrespective of rich or poor, caste, creed, religion, language, etc., have been observing the services rendered by the nurses along with other medical staff. Even a few nurses have passed away while nursing the patients and many have been infected with the coronavirus.  

Anyway, every year 12 May is celebrated as International Nurses Day in commemoration of the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale. It may be mentioned here that Florence Nightingale was born on 12 May 1820 in a wealthy and well-connected British family at the Villa Colombia. She was a British social reformer and statistician, and the founder of contemporary nursing. Moreover, she was a great human being and had feelings for sufferers, and for this reason, she came to prominence while serving as a manager and trainer of nurses during the Crimean War, in which she organized to care for wounded soldiers.

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) has announced the new theme for International Nurses Day (IND) 2022: Nurses: A Voice to Lead – Invest in nursing and respect rights to secure global health, focusing on the need to protect, support, and invest in the nursing profession to strengthen health systems around the world.  According to the publication, “Nurses: A Voice to Lead Invest in nursing and respect rights to secure global health”   by the INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF NURSES (2022)

The benefits of protecting the safety of nurses include the following:

• Reduced hospital-acquired infections

• Greater productivity, increased job satisfaction, and improved retention of nurses

• Improved workplace health and safety, which improves patient safety and patient outcomes

• Supporting stronger and more resilient health systems

• Reduction in workplace induced injury and illnesses and improved health and wellbeing

• Improved return on investment.

Also, it is evident from the publication that “WHO estimates that from January 2020 to May 2021 at least 180,000 health and care workers died as a result of COVID-19 (WHO 2021b). These deaths are a terrible tragedy. In addition to the human toll, the ever-expanding ripple effect is the growing and irreplaceable gap in the health workforce leading the world’s pandemic response”.

The President International Council of Nurses Dr. Pamela Cipriano said: “Nurses have suffered tremendously throughout the pandemic. They have been unnecessarily exposed to the virus, faced attacks from the public, suffered from extreme workloads, and continue to be underpaid and undervalued. If governments continue to put off investing in the health workforce, it will be to the detriment of health systems everywhere. There is no health without a healthy workforce!

‘The International Nurses Day case studies that we have been collecting portray the incredible work of nurses, and our IND theme for 2022 will continue to promote nursing work and fight for nurses’ rights to a safe working environment, decent wages, and full participation in decision-making.”

Florence Nightingale although has passed away on 13 August 1910 but will remain alive in the hearts and memories of millions in the world for her humanitarian service.

.

Indian Economy after independence

Source: jagranjosh

Indian economy at the time of Independence was in crucial state. This situation occurred due to the British Colonialism. After independence the Government changed plan for economic growth. The area of attention was shifted from agriculture to industry.

The growth of public enterprise generate employment and reduce poverty. In 1991, a revolution came into place in terms of liberalization, privatization and globalization that shaped the face of Indian economy. The Indian have the lowest per capital income and also the lowest consumption in the world.

The low income level consequent into low saving and thus small or no investment which end with low capital formation. Therefore, the dangerous cycle of poverty running in the country. The First Five Year Plan stated that the Indian economy remained more or less stagnant during colonial regime, because the basic conditions of economy was continuously remain the same.

The impact of modern industrialism in the later half of the 19th century was emerged through import of machine made goods from abroad that impact adversely on the traditional pattern of economic life, however unable to create the spark for Development. The conditioning of state led to decline of productivity especially those engaged in agriculture, the adverse effects. The consequence was a continuously increasing of employment. Hence, there could be no economic progress.

At the time of Independence 80% of population living in rural areas were engaged in agriculture for subsistence purposes; using traditional low productive technique for agriculture. The underdevelopment of Indian economy is reflected in it’s unbalanced occupational structure. Illiteracy was 84% , Communicable disease were widespread due to the absence of a good public health services, mortality rate was very high.

Agricultural activity contributed nearly 50% to Indian’s National Income. Mines, factories and small craftsmen work contributed only one – sixth, even lower than the numbers for trade, transport and communication. After independence, the government concern in the sphere of economic policy was to control persistent and severe inflationary pressure and to alleviate shortage of essential food items, which was increased by the partition of the country.

The industrial Policy Resolution of 1948 stamped as fundamental departure from earlier policy of laissez faire. Finally, the concept of planning Development programme under the auspices of the central government, was accepted and the planning commission was set up in March 1950 to make an assessment of the material capital and human resources of the country and to formulate a plan for the most effective and balanced utilisation of the countries resources.

India embarked upon the programme of planned economic development of the country with the formulation of first year plan that covered the period of 1951 – 1956. The second plan that followed was form 1956 – 1961 and third plan from 1961 to 1966. The other plans followed there after. The Eleventh Five Year Plan has been launched from 2007 – 2012; Twelfth Five year Plan was started from 2013 – 2014.

 

Source: Deccanherald

The first five year plan provided an inclusive general analysis the nature of the country’s Developmental problem and various options for mobilising resources and achieving Development with more equal distribution. There was special emphasis on the role of mass mobilization of idle rural labour and land reform. The plan optimistically project that saving and investment as a proportion of National Income would rise from an estimated 5 – 6% in the early 1950 to 20% by 1968 – 69.

S Chakravarti  had mentioned some shortcomings of Indian economy. Such as

• The basis cause of development was seen as being an acute deficiency of material capital, which prevented the introduction of more productive technologies.

• The limitation on the speed of capital accumulation was seen to lie in the low capacity to save.

• It was assumed that domestic capacity to save and raised by means of suitable fiscal and monetary policies. There were structural limitations preventing conversion of saving into productive investment.

• The inequality in income distribution was considered to a bad thing, a precipitate transformation of the ownership of productive assets was held to be detrimental to the maximization of production and savings.

• Agriculture was subject to secular diminishing returns, industrialization would allow surplus labour currently under employed in agriculture to be more productively employed in industry.

 

Indian Economy after independence

Source: jagranjosh

Indian economy at the time of Independence was in crucial state. This situation occurred due to the British Colonialism. After independence the Government changed plan for economic growth. The area of attention was shifted from agriculture to industry.

The growth of public enterprise generate employment and reduce poverty. In 1991, a revolution came into place in terms of liberalization, privatization and globalization that shaped the face of Indian economy. The Indian have the lowest per capital income and also the lowest consumption in the world.

The low income level consequent into low saving and thus small or no investment which end with low capital formation. Therefore, the dangerous cycle of poverty running in the country. The First Five Year Plan stated that the Indian economy remained more or less stagnant during colonial regime, because the basic conditions of economy was continuously remain the same.

The impact of modern industrialism in the later half of the 19th century was emerged through import of machine made goods from abroad that impact adversely on the traditional pattern of economic life, however unable to create the spark for Development. The conditioning of state led to decline of productivity especially those engaged in agriculture, the adverse effects. The consequence was a continuously increasing of employment. Hence, there could be no economic progress.

At the time of Independence 80% of population living in rural areas were engaged in agriculture for subsistence purposes; using traditional low productive technique for agriculture. The underdevelopment of Indian economy is reflected in it’s unbalanced occupational structure. Illiteracy was 84% , Communicable disease were widespread due to the absence of a good public health services, mortality rate was very high.

Agricultural activity contributed nearly 50% to Indian’s National Income. Mines, factories and small craftsmen work contributed only one – sixth, even lower than the numbers for trade, transport and communication. After independence, the government concern in the sphere of economic policy was to control persistent and severe inflationary pressure and to alleviate shortage of essential food items, which was increased by the partition of the country.

The industrial Policy Resolution of 1948 stamped as fundamental departure from earlier policy of laissez faire. Finally, the concept of planning Development programme under the auspices of the central government, was accepted and the planning commission was set up in March 1950 to make an assessment of the material capital and human resources of the country and to formulate a plan for the most effective and balanced utilisation of the countries resources.

India embarked upon the programme of planned economic development of the country with the formulation of first year plan that covered the period of 1951 – 1956. The second plan that followed was form 1956 – 1961 and third plan from 1961 to 1966. The other plans followed there after. The Eleventh Five Year Plan has been launched from 2007 – 2012; Twelfth Five year Plan was started from 2013 – 2014.

 

Source: Deccanherald

The first five year plan provided an inclusive general analysis the nature of the country’s Developmental problem and various options for mobilising resources and achieving Development with more equal distribution. There was special emphasis on the role of mass mobilization of idle rural labour and land reform. The plan optimistically project that saving and investment as a proportion of National Income would rise from an estimated 5 – 6% in the early 1950 to 20% by 1968 – 69.

S Chakravarti  had mentioned some shortcomings of Indian economy. Such as

• The basis cause of development was seen as being an acute deficiency of material capital, which prevented the introduction of more productive technologies.

• The limitation on the speed of capital accumulation was seen to lie in the low capacity to save.

• It was assumed that domestic capacity to save and raised by means of suitable fiscal and monetary policies. There were structural limitations preventing conversion of saving into productive investment.

• The inequality in income distribution was considered to a bad thing, a precipitate transformation of the ownership of productive assets was held to be detrimental to the maximization of production and savings.

• Agriculture was subject to secular diminishing returns, industrialization would allow surplus labour currently under employed in agriculture to be more productively employed in industry.

 

Paternity leave- a necessity India needs.

In India women are given the paid maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for working women under the new maternity benefit (Amendment) Act 2017 ,which was passed by the Rajya Sabha in the year August 2016,has now also been approved by the Lok Sabha in the same year ,March 2017.

Women are given maternity leave but what about men, the father of the new born, don’t they need any leave? Do they not wish to be with their new born and be helpful to their families, they too have responsibility towards their family right? Many parents have raised their concern regarding not getting leaves during their child birth and this is actually a growing concern ,if women can get maternity leave then even the father’s should also get their paternity leave .

The maternity leave policy was started back then in 1961,the Maternity benefits act ,by which women got different benefits, facilities and perks, but what about the father , there was nothing sort of paternity leave, and in a country like India where family is considered utmost important , its necessary to provide both maternity and paternity leave.

In 1991 the central government ,under the central civil services (leave) rule 551(A) introduced some provisions for paternity leave like a central government male employee can take leave up to 15 days to take care of child and wife with less than two children.

Paternity leave is sanctioned for the government employees, but there is no law that mandates private sectors when it comes to paternity leave. Therefore, it is decision made by by the individual companies themselves.

Its important for all the sectors to grant these type of leaves , therefore Three years ago in 2017, After the Maternity Benefit Amendment Act happened, there was a new bill proposed, known as The Paternity Benefit Bill. Rajeev Satav, an MP from Maharashtra, stood up for the benefits of fathers of newborn babies.

The Objective of the Bill is “Child care is the joint responsibility of both parents. They must devote time to the newborn to ensure its proper well-being,” said Congress MP Mr. Rajeev Satav.

This new bill states that all workers, both in unorganized and private sectors, should get paternity leave of fifteen days, which is also extendable up to three months. One of the most important features is that it emphasized the equal parental benefits for mothers and fathers. The paternity leave will also allow the mother to get some much-needed support from their husbands and the fathers of their children, both during and after childbirth.

Currently, the Central employees who fall under the All India and Central Civil Services Rules, are all allowed to take a paid fifteen-day paternity leave. This puts India in the top fourteen countries with the highest maternity leave. By providing fifteen days of paid paternity leave to all sectors, India will among the top thirteen countries that provide the highest paternity leave, alongside other benefits.

It is high time the idea of Parental became commonplace so that it can well resonate with the needs of working families today.

One of our Indian cricketer and former captain Mr. Kohli took paternity leave and it was a national news ,even Mark Zuckerberg and Prince William took paternity leave ,but why did this become such a big news only in India

There should be no discrimination says the society ,but what about granting paternity leave ,when women can get maternity leave ,then even the father of child has right to get leave and share responsibilities with mother and support her during and after child birth. The new born needs both of the parents ,its a joint responsibility and they must devote their time to the new born to ensure proper well being .So I think paternity leave should be granted to everyone either government or private sector employee.

Paternity leave- a necessity India needs.

In India women are given the paid maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for working women under the new maternity benefit (Amendment) Act 2017 ,which was passed by the Rajya Sabha in the year August 2016,has now also been approved by the Lok Sabha in the same year ,March 2017.

Women are given maternity leave but what about men, the father of the new born, don’t they need any leave? Do they not wish to be with their new born and be helpful to their families, they too have responsibility towards their family right? Many parents have raised their concern regarding not getting leaves during their child birth and this is actually a growing concern ,if women can get maternity leave then even the father’s should also get their paternity leave .

The maternity leave policy was started back then in 1961,the Maternity benefits act ,by which women got different benefits, facilities and perks, but what about the father , there was nothing sort of paternity leave, and in a country like India where family is considered utmost important , its necessary to provide both maternity and paternity leave.

In 1991 the central government ,under the central civil services (leave) rule 551(A) introduced some provisions for paternity leave like a central government male employee can take leave up to 15 days to take care of child and wife with less than two children.

Paternity leave is sanctioned for the government employees, but there is no law that mandates private sectors when it comes to paternity leave. Therefore, it is decision made by by the individual companies themselves.

Its important for all the sectors to grant these type of leaves , therefore Three years ago in 2017, After the Maternity Benefit Amendment Act happened, there was a new bill proposed, known as The Paternity Benefit Bill. Rajeev Satav, an MP from Maharashtra, stood up for the benefits of fathers of newborn babies.

The Objective of the Bill is “Child care is the joint responsibility of both parents. They must devote time to the newborn to ensure its proper well-being,” said Congress MP Mr. Rajeev Satav.

This new bill states that all workers, both in unorganized and private sectors, should get paternity leave of fifteen days, which is also extendable up to three months. One of the most important features is that it emphasized the equal parental benefits for mothers and fathers. The paternity leave will also allow the mother to get some much-needed support from their husbands and the fathers of their children, both during and after childbirth.

Currently, the Central employees who fall under the All India and Central Civil Services Rules, are all allowed to take a paid fifteen-day paternity leave. This puts India in the top fourteen countries with the highest maternity leave. By providing fifteen days of paid paternity leave to all sectors, India will among the top thirteen countries that provide the highest paternity leave, alongside other benefits.

It is high time the idea of Parental became commonplace so that it can well resonate with the needs of working families today.

One of our Indian cricketer and former captain Mr. Kohli took paternity leave and it was a national news ,even Mark Zuckerberg and Prince William took paternity leave ,but why did this become such a big news only in India

There should be no discrimination says the society ,but what about granting paternity leave ,when women can get maternity leave ,then even the father of child has right to get leave and share responsibilities with mother and support her during and after child birth. The new born needs both of the parents ,its a joint responsibility and they must devote their time to the new born to ensure proper well being .So I think paternity leave should be granted to everyone either government or private sector employee.