The Standing Committee of the Indian Parliament has called for expedited government action to provide permanent disability certificates to individuals aged five and above afflicted with sickle-cell disease (SCD). SCD is a genetic disorder causing chronic anemia, painful crises, and organ damage. The Union Budget for 2023-24 sets a target to eliminate Sickle Cell Anemia by 2047. The Standing Committee, a crucial parliamentary body, assists in various legislative functions, including scrutinizing public finances and enhancing legislation. SCD technical guidelines were issued in 2016 to address this health challenge, emphasizing the need for timely intervention and support for affected individuals.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Standing Committee: A Standing Committee is a permanent committee in the Indian Parliament, established regularly to handle specific parliamentary functions and responsibilities, including analyzing laws and fostering consensus among political parties.
- Ad hoc Committees: Ad hoc committees are temporary committees formed for specific purposes or tasks as needed, in contrast to permanent Standing Committees.
- Chronic Anemia: Chronic anemia is a long-term condition characterized by a shortage of red blood cells, leading to fatigue, weakness, and reduced oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood.
- Union Budget 2023-24: The annual financial statement presented by the Indian government, outlining its revenue and expenditure plans for the fiscal year 2023-24.
- Hemoglobinopathies: Hemoglobinopathies are genetic disorders affecting hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen. SCD is one type of hemoglobinopathy.