United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
- Context: A recent UNFPA study indicates that the majority of youth and adolescents in India still wish to have children.
- However, many are postponing starting a family due to financial constraints and gender inequality.
About UNFPA
- The United Nations Population Fund is a UN development agency established in 1967.
- It supports programs and activities related to population issues and sexual and reproductive health.
- Headquarters: New York, USA.
Background
- It was originally known as the ‘United Nations Fund for Population Activities’.
- In 1987, its official name was changed to the ‘United Nations Population Fund’; however, the acronym UNFPA continues to be used.
Role
- UNFPA does not directly collect primary population data.
- Instead, it provides technical and financial assistance to countries for activities such as censuses, surveys, and other statistical programs.
Funding Source
- UNFPA is funded entirely through voluntary contributions.
- Funds are received from donor governments, intergovernmental organizations, the private sector, foundations, and individuals.
- It does not receive funding from the regular United Nations budget.
Key Areas of Operation
- Reproductive health, including:
- Family planning
- Safe motherhood
- Prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
- Population-related issues in developed and developing countries and strategies to address them.
- Women’s empowerment; Specifically, narrowing the gender gap in education and improving the status of women.
Administration
- UNFPA receives overall policy guidance from the United Nations General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council.
Current Facts
- A target was set to reduce fatalities resulting from road accidents in Tamil Nadu by at least 50 percent by the year 2030.
About Ayurvedic Surgery
- Ayurvedic surgery is primarily based on the teachings of Sushruta, regarded as the “Father of Surgery.”
- The Sushruta Samhita describes surgical procedures, instruments, wound management, fracture treatment, and reconstructive surgery.
- It remains an important component of Ayurveda and is practiced today in selected specialties such as Shalya Tantra (general surgery) and Shalakya Tantra (ENT and ophthalmology)
TIRUKKURAL
If men do virtuous deeds by world-wide ample glory crowned,
The heavens will cease to laud the sage for other gifts renowned
Explanation :If one has acquired extensive fame within the limits of this earth, the world of the Gods will no longer praise those sages who have attained that world.
