Issue Details

UNDERSTANDING THE NATURE OF SUICIDE IN INDIA: EXPLORING ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS AND GOVERNMENT SCHEMES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEGLECTED CLASSES

ABSTRACT

This research paper delves into the complex issue of suicide in India, aiming to understand its nature and explore its relationship with socio-economic status and government schemes targeted towards the development of neglected classes. The study utilizes data from various sources, including the National Crime Records Bureau report and government schemes, to analyze the trends and factors associated with suicide rates. The findings reveal that daily wage workers constitute a significant proportion of suicide cases, with more than 25% of suicides attributed to this vulnerable group. The decline in wages among agricultural workers compared to non-agricultural laborers has contributed to their precarious economic situation, making them particularly susceptible to mental distress and despair. Furthermore, when examining suicide rates per lakh of population, Kerala emerges as a region with high suicide rates. The socio-economic challenges faced by daily wage workers, along with other factors such as mental health issues and lack of support systems, contribute to the higher incidence of suicides in Kerala. To address these issues, the paper highlights the importance of the National Suicide Prevention Strategy announced by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which aims to establish effective surveillance mechanisms, enhance mental health services, integrate mental well-being curricula in educational institutions, and promote responsible media reporting of suicides. Moreover, government schemes such as the Food Security Program, Ayushman Bharat, PM MUDRA YOJANA, and others have been identified as initiatives that can potentially alleviate the socio-economic pressures faced by daily wage workers and marginalized classes, thereby reducing suicide rates. The study concludes that a multi-faceted approach is necessary to combat suicide in India. This involves addressing the economic disparities, strengthening mental health support systems, implementing targeted interventions, and creating an enabling environment that supports the holistic development and well-being of individuals. By focusing on the socio-economic factors and implementing effective government schemes, it is possible to mitigate the risk factors associated with suicide and pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient society.

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