1. Editorial: From “Coverage” to “Care” – The Universal Health Challenge
Source: The Hindu
Context
Marking the progress of Ayushman Bharat (AB-PMJAY), this editorial questions whether India is achieving true Universal Healthcare (UHC) or merely expanding “Public Health Insurance.”
Multi-Dimensional Analysis
The Insurance-Centric Trap The editorial critiques India’s “Hospital-Centric” model. While AB-PMJAY covers ₹5 lakh for hospitalization, it largely ignores Outpatient Care (OPD). Data shows that the majority of “Out-of-Pocket Expenditure” (OOPE) in India is spent on diagnostics and medicines for chronic illnesses (diabetes, BP) that do not require hospitalization. By focusing only on the “sick” in hospitals, the system fails to provide “care” for the healthy.
The “Bhore Committee” vs. The Current Drift The 1946 Bhore Committee envisioned a system where the state is the primary provider of healthcare. However, the current model increasingly relies on Private Sector Strategic Purchasing. The editorial argues that this “market-based” healthcare often leads to “provider-induced demand,” where private hospitals perform unnecessary surgeries to claim insurance money.
Lessons from the East Asian Tiger Models Countries like Thailand and South Korea achieved UHC not through insurance alone, but by building a robust Public Health Infrastructure that acts as a “Gatekeeper.” In these systems, you cannot go to a specialist without a referral from a primary clinic. In India, the Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) are supposed to be gatekeepers, but they remain underfunded and understaffed.
Fiscal Sustainability With public health spending still hovering around 2.1% of GDP (against the NHP target of 2.5%), the editorial warns that an insurance-based model will become fiscally unsustainable as the population ages.
Conclusion
India must pivot from “Insurance for the Poor” to “Health for All.” This requires integrating the insurance scheme into a state-run primary healthcare network.
2. Editorial: Oman – India’s “Quiet Pillar” in the Gulf
Source: Indian Express
Context
Following a landmark visit to Muscat, this editorial explores why Oman has emerged as India’s most trusted strategic partner in the volatile West Asian landscape.
Multi-Dimensional Analysis
The “Diplomatic Mediator” Advantage Unlike its neighbors, Oman follows a policy of “Balanced Neutrality.” It is the only Gulf nation that maintains warm ties with both Iran and the West/Israel. For India, Oman serves as a “backchannel” for diplomacy. The editorial highlights that Oman’s moderation makes it the “Headquarters of Trust” for India’s West Asia Policy.
Maritime and Security Architecture The strategic core of the relationship lies in the Duqm Port. By securing logistics and basing rights at Duqm, the Indian Navy can monitor the “Choke Points” of the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb. This is a direct counter to the “String of Pearls” strategy and allows India to track Chinese PLA Navy movements in the Western Indian Ocean.
The Economic Pivot: CEPA and Energy The proposed India-Oman CEPA is not just about trade; it is about Energy Transition. Oman is positioning itself as a “Green Hydrogen” hub. The editorial suggests that India can secure “Critical Mineral” supply chains through Oman, reducing dependence on China for the EV revolution.
The Diaspora and Soft Power With over 7 lakh Indians in Oman, the “human bridge” is a significant factor. Unlike other Gulf states with strict labor laws, Oman has been more receptive to the “India Business Forum,” fostering a deep “people-to-people” connect.
Conclusion
The India-Oman partnership is the “anchor” of India’s maritime security. In an era of regional instability, Oman is the reliable partner India needs to navigate the “Great Game” in the Gulf.
