With refence to the above passage, which of the following is/are the most rational and practical implication/implications? 1. India’s Public Distribution System should be monitored by the Union Government. 2. Girls should be encouraged to delay marriage and first pregnancy. 3. Mothers should be encouraged to breastfeed their children immediately after birth. 4. The supply of safe drinking water and proper sanitation facilities to all should be ensured. 5. Authorities should ensure the vaccination should ensure the vaccination as prescribed. Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Passage

India is at once among the fastest growing global economies and home to the largest number of malnourished children in world. There are regions where malnutrition is not the exception but the norm. And across the country, malnutrition is the cause of death for roughly half the 1.3 million children who die before their fifth birthday each year. Even those children who survive suffer permanently from the damage that has already been done to their bodies and minds from not getting enough of the right foods and nutrients. Around 44 million children under 5 are stunted. That makes it harder for them to learn in school and subsequently earn a living as adults. Their lifetime earnings potential is almost a quarter less than of their healthy peers.

Question

CSATMediumPrelims 2020Comprehension

With refence to the above passage, which of the following is/are the most rational and practical implication/implications?

India’s Public Distribution System should be monitored by the Union Government.
Girls should be encouraged to delay marriage and first pregnancy.
Mothers should be encouraged to breastfeed their children immediately after birth.
The supply of safe drinking water and proper sanitation facilities to all should be ensured.
Authorities should ensure the vaccination should ensure the vaccination as prescribed.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. Merely monitoring the Public Distribution System (PDS) will not directly lead to improved child nutrition. The issue is more complex, involving factors such as maternal health, access to clean water, and broader healthcare interventions.

Statement 2 is correct. This statement highlights the connection between maternal and child health. A mother who marries at a younger age and gives birth earlier is more likely to face health challenges that negatively impact the nutrition and health of her child. Delayed childbearing, however, can lead to better health outcomes for both mother and child.

Statement 3 is correct. Mothers pass immunity to their babies through immunoglobulins, specific proteins that help transfer immunity. This not only provides essential nutrition but also boosts survival rates among infants, improving their overall health and well-being.

Statement 4 is correct. According to UNICEF, less than 50% of India’s population has access to safely managed drinking water. Poor water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services in health facilities contribute to high neonatal mortality rates. Access to clean water and proper sanitation is crucial to prevent diseases and combat malnutrition among children.

Statement 5 is correct. The passage emphasizes the impact of poor nutrition and related illnesses on children's health. Vaccination drives are essential for boosting survival rates and overall child health, making it a priority for authorities.