School Health Services in India: The Social and Economic Contexts

While the contribution of education to health has gained recognition, the reciprocal relationship between health and education and its outcomes have not been adequately studied. This work broadens the perspective on school health in India by locating it within the epidemiological and socio-economic context of children in the school-going age group. The collection explores the social context and programmes for school health in the country, including the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) Scheme, School Health Services and School Health Education. Studies have shown that socio-economic factors play a very important role in determining enrolment, retention, completion and learning in schools. School Health Services in India: The Social and Economic Contexts analyzes the relationship between levels of malnutrition and minor and major illnesses on the one hand, and socio-economic status, on the other. It also examines in detail the different components of the school health programme in India and how they function in different contexts. In addition, it showcases the experiences of three NGOs which have adopted innovative approaches to transact health education in government schools in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka. This seminal work will be helpful to teachers and researchers working in the fields of education and health. It will also be immensely useful for researchers and faculty working in the areas of social medicine, community health and social work.