NCERT Class 7 Political Science — Chapter 1: Role of the Government in Health

mcqeasy

The 'Costa Rican approach' in public health is primarily attributed to which one of the following policy decisions?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

APrivatization of the entire water supply network
BAbolition of the national army to divert funds to healthcare
CMandatory military service for medical professionals
DIntroduction of mandatory health insurance for all tourists

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Solution

Correct Option

The correct option is

Abolition of the national army to divert funds to healthcare

Explanation

The "Costa Rican approach" refers to a distinct governance and development strategy adopted by Costa Rica, emphasizing human development and social welfare over military expenditure.

Detailed Analysis:

Abolition of the Army: In 1948, the Costa Rican government took the significant decision to abolish its national army. This is considered one of the most crucial decisions in the country's history.
Reallocation of Funds: The funds that would have been used for the military were diverted to finance health, education, and basic needs of the population.
Focus on Public Health: The government utilized these resources to ensure the provision of safe drinking water, sanitation, nutrition, and housing. Consequently, Costa Rica is considered one of the healthiest countries in Central America.

Key Takeaway: The Costa Rican approach highlights the direct correlation between the reduction of defense spending and the improvement of public health infrastructure and social well-being.

Your note

More from Chapter 1: Role of the Government in Health

Consider the following statements regarding the concept of 'Health': 1. It is often defined broadly to include physical, mental, and social well-being. 2. Access to clean drinking water is not considered a determinant of health. 3. Mental strain and anxiety are aspects that affect a person's health. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

With reference to the healthcare system in India, consider the following: 1. India has a shortage of medical colleges and produces a negligible number of doctors annually. 2. The public healthcare system has the capacity to serve rural populations scattered over large areas. 3. There has been significant advancement in medical technologies within the country. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

Which of the following best describes the structure of the public health system at the village level in India?

medium

With reference to the Primary Health Centre (PHC), consider the following: 1. It is located at the district headquarters. 2. It supervises the work of the village health workers. 3. It covers many villages in a rural area. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below: List I | List II A. Village Level | 1. Has specialized government hospitals B. PHC Level | 2. Covers many villages in a rural area C. District Level | 3. Supervises all health centres in the district D. Large Cities | 4. Usually has a nurse and a village health worker

medium

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Correct Option

The correct option is

Abolition of the national army to divert funds to healthcare

Explanation

The "Costa Rican approach" refers to a distinct governance and development strategy adopted by Costa Rica, emphasizing human development and social welfare over military expenditure.

Detailed Analysis:

Abolition of the Army: In 1948, the Costa Rican government took the significant decision to abolish its national army. This is considered one of the most crucial decisions in the country's history.
Reallocation of Funds: The funds that would have been used for the military were diverted to finance health, education, and basic needs of the population.
Focus on Public Health: The government utilized these resources to ensure the provision of safe drinking water, sanitation, nutrition, and housing. Consequently, Costa Rica is considered one of the healthiest countries in Central America.

Key Takeaway: The Costa Rican approach highlights the direct correlation between the reduction of defense spending and the improvement of public health infrastructure and social well-being.