24 July 2025: The Hindu Editorial

1. India Completes Screening 6 Crore People under National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission

Source –  Page 1, The Hindu 

Topic: GS2 – Health, Inclusive Policies; GS1 – Social Issues

Context

The Union government announced that it has crossed the milestone of screening 6 crore people as part of the National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission, a key initiative targeting tribal and vulnerable communities.

Background:

Sickle cell anemia remains a major public health issue in central and eastern India, significantly impacting tribal populations. The national mission was launched to eliminate the disease by 2047.

Key Features of the Mission:

• • Focuses on universal screening in affected districts.

  • Involves genetic counseling and provision of hydroxyurea for patients.

  • Integrates health, education, and tribal welfare departments for a holistic approach.

  • Free testing at public health institutions.

Progress and Achievements:

• • 6 crore people screened across 17 states.

  • Increased community awareness and early diagnosis.

  • Use of digital records for beneficiary tracking.

Challenges:

• • Difficulties in reaching remote tribal areas.

  • Social stigma and resistance to testing.

  • Shortage of trained counselors and doctors.

Way Forward:

• • Strengthening last-mile delivery and awareness.

  • Enhancing training for local health workers.

  • Continued data-driven monitoring to identify outbreaks.

Practice Question: “Discuss the significance, challenges, and prospects of the National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission in India. Suggest measures to ensure its effective implementation among vulnerable communities.

2. World Bank Report: Urban India’s Climate Challenge by 2030

Source -Page 11, The Hindu Delhi Edition

Topic: GS3 – Environment, Disaster Management, Economy; GS1 – Urbanization

Context

A World Bank report warns of mounting climate risks and economic losses for Indian cities, highlighting a projected $5 billion annual loss from urban flooding by 2030.

Report Highlights:

• • Indian cities will account for 70% of new jobs created by 2030.

  • Rapid urban expansion is increasing vulnerability to heatwaves and floods.

  • Key risk cities: Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.

  • Infrastructure gaps and weak urban planning intensify disaster risks.

Challenges and Analysis:

• • Informal settlements most at risk from flooding and extreme weather.

  • Gaps in municipal resources, poor drainage and land use planning.

  • Need for resilient infrastructure, early warning systems, disaster insurance.

Policy Recommendations:

• • Strengthen city-level risk assessment and climate adaptation strategies.

  • Integrate environmental and economic planning.

  • Promote public-private partnerships in urban resilience projects.

Conclusion/Way Forward:

India must prioritize climate-adaptive urban policies and invest in resilient infrastructure to safeguard economic growth.

Practice Question: Urbanization and climate change pose new risks to Indian cities. Critically assess these challenges and suggest solutions for sustainable urban development, as highlighted by the recent World Bank report.

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