House-to-door investigations were conducted in the village of Bhalabadrapuram in Bikkavolu Mandal in the East Godavari district to identify various cancer cases. (File) | Image source: Hindu
The Supreme Court commented on Wednesday (2 April 2025) that health, education and health care are the three most important paths to India’s strong rural areas.
The judge led by Justice Surya Kant guided the states to establish at least one public library in each village of the country when he heard a petition filed by the Mundona Rural Development Foundation.
But Judge Kant said that while the library is worthy of praise, it may not be what rural areas need the most.
“If you want to improve rural India, you must ensure hygiene, education and health… will a person who starves to death go to the library?” Justice Kant asked the petitioner.
Judge Kant said states often cite “financial restrictions” which are why not spend more on improving health, education and health care in rural areas.
The court said at least 10 to 15 per cent of state budget allocations must be used to improve basic rural infrastructure to achieve the ambitions of a fully developed country.
“Different priority”
Judge Kant said the priorities vary: While petitioners consider public libraries to be crucial in villages, others may want to use their money for health care.
The Supreme Court agreed that the library does indeed contact children and provides them with “a perspective on the subjects of citizens’ history, culture, constitutional values, rights and responsibilities.”
Judge Kant said the library also contacts people living in inaccessible areas, injecting it into democratic and constitutional values.
“But it is equally important to provide them with adequate health care, health and education,” Judge Kant pointed out.
Call for investigation
Justice Kant asked the petitioner whether the NGO had investigated the health status of the village or the drinking water status therein.
“Did you check the children’s schools, teachers and lunches, water supply in the village… Has anyone done these investigations?” The bench asked the petitioner for the lawyer.
The court said the government would be better off prioritizing public libraries or basic infrastructure in rural areas.
The bench deals with the petition, urging states to study the issue and take necessary steps within their resources.
It shows that the state will consider taking effective measures, including promoting electronic units through the Corporate Social Responsibility Fund.
publishing – April 2, 2025 03:27 pm ist
