Mains Answer Writing - 11 Jan, 2026

GS3

Science & Technology

15 marks

“Despite the availability of cost-effective preventive interventions, India continues to report a high burden of neural tube defects such as Spina Bifida.”
In this context, examine the role of pre-conceptional folic acid supplementation and food fortification in preventing Spina Bifida in India. Discuss the challenges in implementation and suggest policy measures to address them.

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Tips for your answer

Begin with data-backed context
Start with India’s high prevalence of Spina Bifida (around 4 per 1,000 births) versus global best practices (<1 per 1,000) to immediately establish the problem and its policy relevance.
Link prevention tools to public health policy
Clearly explain why pre-conceptional folic acid supplementation and food fortification (salt/tea staples) are more cost-effective than treatment, and connect this to preventive healthcare and SDG-3.
Focus on implementation gaps and solutions
Highlight gaps such as low awareness, absence of mandatory fortification, and weak inter-ministerial coordination, then suggest actionable measures like national campaigns, mandatory fortification, and integration with RMNCH+A programs.

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