Addressing Socio-Economic Inequalities Through Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's Framework: Maternal Health and Child Development in The Context Of ICDS.

Abstract

This research paper explores the socio-economic inequalities faced by women and children in the BIMARU states (Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh) in India, focusing on maternal health and child development. Despite some improvements post-independence, the health and well-being of women and children remain significant concerns in these regions due to historical neglect, socio-cultural barriers, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, launched in 1975, was designed to address these issues by promoting maternal health, reducing infant mortality, and improving early childhood development through nutrition and education. However, the implementation and effectiveness of ICDS have been uneven across the BIMARU states. The study examines maternal and child health indicators, including antenatal care, neonatal and infant mortality rates, stunting, wasting, undernutrition, and pre-primary education attendance, using data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019-2021). The paper identifies critical challenges such as poor access to maternal healthcare, high rates of anaemia and early marriages, and limited access to early childhood education, particularly in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Drawing on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's governance philosophy of decentralization, accountability, and inclusive development, the paper proposes policy recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of ICDS, with a focus on local empowerment, improved governance, and community mobilization. By aligning ICDS with Patel’s principles, this research advocates for a more equitable approach to addressing maternal and child health disparities in these states, offering a path forward for improving socio-economic outcomes for women and children in BIMARU regions.

Keywords: Socio-economic inequalities, maternal health, child development, ICDS, BIMARU states, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, policy recommendations, decentralization, public health.