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chapter 18 role of The

GoVerNmeNT IN healTh

In a democratic set up, the Government works for the welfare of its people. The Government

looks after the education, health, employment, etc. of the people. It also performs certain
developmental functions like development of roads, electricity etc. Let us see how the
government plays an active role in maintaining the health of its subjects.
meaninG of healTh

In 1948, in its Constitution, the World Health Organization (WHO) defined health as “A
state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of
disease or infirmity.”
In simple words, health means our ability to remain free of illness and injuries. But

health is not only concerned with disease. Some other factors also affect our physical and
mental well-being. These factors include sanitation, clean drinking water, pollution free
environment, sufficient and nutritious food, proper shelter and the life without mental
strain. All these aspects are a part of our health.

asPEcts oF hEalth
• Physical Health : Physical fitness is good bodily health, and is the result of regular
exercise, proper diet and nutrition and proper rest for physical recovery.

• Mental Health : Mental health refers to a state of emotional and psychological well-
being in which an individual is able to use his/her cognitive and emotional capabilities,
function in society and meet the ordinary demands of everyday life.
DEtErminants oF hEalth

There are four general determinants of health including :
• Human Biology
• Environment
• Life Style

• Health Care Services
Thus, health is maintained and improved not only through the advancement and application
of health science; but also through the efforts and intelligent life style of the individual and

society.
healTh care in inDia
The rate of arrival of medical tourism in
It’s not that India is less developed or lacks India has increased by 25% per annum and
the finances to make the resources or facilities accelerating the market at a very high rate.
available to the people. In fact, India is among
the largest producers of doctors. Approximately 15,000 new doctors qualify every year. The

110 Social Studies-7