Jan Swasthya
Abhiyan
NCC meeting
minutes
Date: 14-15 May 2022
Venue: P. Ramamurty Bhawan, 20
Pushp Vihar, Sector VI,
M.V. Road, Saket, New Delhi-110 0017
A.
Introductory session: Moderators - Chhaya
Pachauli and Abhay Shukla
The introductory session began with welcoming the
participants, followed by a round of introductions by all participants (List of
participants present in person and online in Annexure 3 – To be Added). An
overview of the objectives of the NCC meeting and agenda (Annexure 1) were
presented.
Drawing attention to the larger context in the
country especially the situation of health, the relevance of JSA was reiterated.
Acknowledging that there exist internal organisational challenges, the
objective would be to have a constructive discussion based on the agenda.
-
Participants were then requested to reflect
briefly (2 minutes each) on the question– In your opinion what is one area of strength,
and one area needing improvement, regarding JSA’s organisational functioning?
-
The participants articulated the strengths of JSA including
o
its rich diversity (geographical as well as diversity of
organisations working on a range of issues) since its inception;
o
the ability to work together with such diversity;
o
the nimbleness of the organisation to respond to
issues;
o
the solidarity and
commitment of JSA members;
o
JSA’s unique position within social movements and the ability to
raise issues that other movements do not;
o
JSA’s politics of health – the robust understanding and analysis
of health, health sector. It’s critical role in contributing to immediate, emerging issues and
concerns around health, and ability to influence policies.
-
In terms of areas for improvement / strengthening,
participants flagged some suggestions:
o
Transparency
and accountability to be strengthened within the organisation;
o
The
involvement of grassroots movements and engagement with other movements need to
be expanded;
o
Pursue
more effective means of campaigning, update the themes and demands of campaigns
particularly in light of the evolving landscape of healthcare
o
Important
that any differences are resolved through discussion and spaces for their
resolution are created;
o
Strengthen
the ability to collectivise JSA’s strength to respond to challenges around us.
The session was concluded
reiterating the need to resolve differences in a comradely manner- the need to
move ahead with differences and beyond temporary setbacks.
There is need for balance – the
bringing together and addressing various sensitivities, stepping back from
situations of disrespect is key. Amit Sengupta was acknowledged for having done this extremely well.
Transperant and evidence based
approach and analysis for any discourse shall be encouraged
B.
Revisiting and revamping JSA organisational
framework at national level: Moderators- Anant Phadke and Renu Khanna
The
background and session objectives were shared by the moderators.
Following
a meeting on 28 July 2021 meeting, a working group was constituted to update
existing notes on orgnaisation.
The
working group examined various previous NCC and other relevant meetings’
minutes – the Nagpur 2014 that exhaustively discussed organisational issues,
Delhi 2019. Five members of the working group (Renu, Indranil, Richa, Amulya
and Sanjeev Sinha) were involved - two
drafts were developed and shared. The team could not reach to a unanimously
agreed note.
Abhay
has worked to reconcile the similarities and differences of these two notes in
which Sunder and others gave comments based on which the discussion was
oriented.- there were agreements on most points, two or three issues
need discussion and resolution.
It
was agreed to build on what the NCC agrees upon through the current
discussion, not minding the differences existing earlier. Any issues which were
not discussed or remained unresolved earlier can be noted and built on in the
future.
Some
ground rules for the discussion were suggested:
·
Not
going into what happened in the past / avoid going into the process but to make
suggestions base don past experiences.
·
Feel
free to express but at the same time do not deviate too much. Else, moderators
shall intervene and there should be no hard feelings.
·
Focus
should be on principle differences and not on personal differences.
Abhay
Shukla presented the comparison table that had been shared previously with the
NCC (Annexures)
Roughly
9 points where there is very little difference; there are some areas where one
draft has given new / additional points. Two sections have some significant
differences and five sections no major differences but requires clarity.
Individual person in NCC is complex. Many members were
part of organisations and moved on but continued to be part of the NCC.
1.
JSA
NCC – structure, roles
- National Co-convenors should be elected by NCC and
ensuring diversity - regional and others.
- Equitable representation of National networks should be
allowed to have larger representation.
- The idea is to have representation from all organisations
and there should be equal weightage for each.
- Need to reach out to the other constituencies. Mass organisations
should be contacted and JSA should develop solidarity and coordination with other
likeminded organisation.
- Academic institutions should contacted to part of JSA.
- Need to differentiate the role of health organisations and
other national networks.
- Need to have all national networks and to give space to
them in NCC.
- Responsibility of NCC should be to strengthen State
units, ensure democratic functioning at all levels.
- Mechanism or process of exit from NCC is needed
Key decisions /
follow ups
- All state groups, networks to be represented by two
members in the NCC.
- All networks and states to be represented.
- Role of National Co-convenors in the NCC needs to be
discussed for clarity.
- Individuals cannot be part of NCC unless part of the state JSA and the state recommends - either
organisational or state.
- NCC should be the decision making body of JSA and the
national secretariat shall be the implementing body.
- Thematic group has been made few years back which should
be strengthening.
2.
National
secretariat
Suggestions and discussion points
- Historical context of the JSA Secretariat was presented
to situate the current discussion.
o
National
secretariat started in 2003 to coordinate various activities. Since then an
organisation was involved which hosted it. First it was hosted by Sathi in
Maharashtra, then MP was involved. Then it shifted to Delhi with three
organisations working and one hosting it. There were also some semi-formal
arrangements for funds. In 2018 there were 6 organisations (SATHI, Sama,
Sochara, Sahyog, Prayas, and PHRN) Some Delhi based, some from outside.
- The functionality of the Secretariat flagged as a
concern.
- Clarity regarding composition – is it organisational hosting
or it’s individuals involved in the secretariat. This will be discussed
further.
- Is a full time functional secretariat required (
mentioned by both drafts). How to do this to be discussed subsequently.
- Need to change the current structure of secretariat,
Governability as a principle – Secretariat should be of a viable size.
- We need dedicated time for some people- we need to think
of ways to support that.
- A full time Secretariat, it has to be hosted with an
organisation which has a bank account which can also be financial host
organisation.
- Positions in the Secretariat should be rotated in every
three years.
- Secretariat should be built around a set of people- who
are willing to function and give time- whether part time or full time.
- Stable funding should be explored and in its absence
functionality could suffer. Overall it’s
a complex problem.
- Team spirit is key. The secretariat team put together in
2018 did not work cohesively.
- Suggested 3-4 organisations, willing to work for next 1-2
years to take responsibility.
- The criteria should be who can contribute rather than the
number.
- Suggested 6 domains: Logistic and coordination,
communication role of the network, playing a role as a consensus builder. There
is need to develop criteria.
-
Some roles that were played
need to be acknowledged – gaps to be kept in mind moving ahead.
-
The sect team should come to
the NCC with the proposal.
- 3-4 organisations should host the secretariat and the
current (at the moment no host organisation exist for JSA) ones should be given
priority.
- Representation of young people is crucial the constituent
organisations and states should explore how to work and engage with younger
people; treat people in the organisations who are JSA members.
- There are different communication platforms - JSA NCC,
social media, JSA website etc. To be discussed.
- Actual composition of the Secretariat to be discussed and
decided on Day 2 by lunchtime.
Broad principles identified for Secretariat
functioning that emerged:
- The Secretariat needs to be differentiated clearly from
the NCC. The Secretariat functioning- role should be purely secretarial,
not leadership. This is not agreeable. Secretariat members cannot be
leaders but converted to clerks- is a wrong idea.
- Secretariat positions are responsibilities and
painstaking rather than power/authority.
- Functioning of the secretariat has to be equitable. To
work as a team, hierarchy is a hinderance.
- Concern that some states have more members to NCC and
some have none to be checked.
- NCC list has undergone revisions undertaken by the
Secretariat – to be shared.
DAY 2 / 15 May 2022
-
Brief reiteration of points
from Day 1.
-
NCC as decision making body
and secretariat as facilitating body. Why
repeat?
-
Importance of creating
diversity within structures – creating equitable spaces in every body of JSA.
-
Agenda ahead to look at co
convenors, that ties up with National Secretariat and NCC. What does it mean?
3.
Revisiting
the role, structure of national co convenors
Key discussions and suggestions
-
JSA doesn’t have a national
convenor for a decade and should not be reintroduced. There are only
co-convenors.
-
States and networks equal ratio within co-convenors
-
National co-convenors – it
was decided to go with 20 persons and should not go over and below that unless
there is a valid reason.
-
At least one third of
national convenors or co-conveners should be changed – so that there is change but
also with continuity.
-
National Co-convenors
expected to play a role nationally beyond the state. Earlier 4-5 co-convenors assigned
to coordinate activities in 3 states each – as a concept it was sound, worked
in a variable way.
-
In 2014 – Nagpur meeting number
increased to 18 / 20. Co-convenors remained active in their states but many of
them did not move beyond, and some became inactive.
-
National co-convenorship is a
responsibility at the national level – hence roles clarity is very important.
-
It’s a leadership position;
there is need to groom younger / new people. It’s a leadership responsibility
position and a space requiring mentorship
by those moving out.
-
Need to look at which
positions vacant and fill positions.
-
Number of positions to be as
minimal as possible would be desirable. NCC and co-convenors guide the
Secretariat.
-
Younger people taking
initiative but not involved in decision making should be corrected. (Overriding
NCC and Secretariat?)
-
Clarity in roles and
linkages between the NCC, co-convenors and secretariat is required to minimise
overlaps and improve functioning. What are the overlaps of convenors and
secretariat, the thematic groups?
Responsibilities of the various tasks of the Co-convenors
o
Help JSA in arriving at crucial
decisions and taking policy positions;
o
Lead JSA in various activities;
o
Coordinate with at least three state
chapters and facilitate the activities; and
o
Convene at least one thematic group;
o
Guide the secretariat;
o
Represent JSA at various fora;
o
Coordinate with various networks to
strengthen alliances and movements;
o
Draft various JSA publications
including statements, manifestos, position papers, press release etc.
o
Report back to the NCC from
states/networks and report about national activities/plans to states/networks
o
Other tasks entrusted by the NCC.
Key
decisions / conclusions/follow ups
-
Co-convenors is a good
layer to have between NCC and secretariat.
-
Number not defined but
thematic and regional representation with other diversity is necessary.
-
Need to look at each task
and responsibility of all the layers being created – if overall it is
facilitative, minimise overlap and spell out discrete functions.
-
Vision building decision
making – NCC is the larger decision making body, co-convenors is the vehicle
and secretariat should be logistics, coordination but also substantive along with
the national co-convenors.
-
Internal review/ reflection
to see who is transitioning out and who can be part – task remains and how and
by when this can be done.
-
Pending: Who will be part of
the secretariat, Who will be co-convenors?
-
Decision whether or not a
secretariat coordinator is required should be the decision of the hosting
organisations. The latter should propose to the NCC once discussed / decided.
C.
JSA position on taking institutional
funding: Moderators - Sarojini and Ameer
Moderators
provided a preamble to this discussion (refer – Sarojini’s note sent by
email). The note is based on revisiting previous
discussions and minutes including her experience.
-
Funding is a larger and more
complex issue but need to locate it in a context.
-
Discussion on funding and
NGO isation – voluntarism, etc. are critical as is the understanding of privilege
of investing time and implications for exclusion however strong the commitment.
-
For example, National Health
Assembly (NHA) resources mobilised from institutional funding sources but also
individual funds. Also, large amount of voluntarism.
-
Sources of funding is
important – CSR? Gates? Etc. NGOs are also thinking / reflecting on this. Many
of us / NGOs have contributed to JSA.
-
Differentiation is necessary between
government, Indian philanthropic and foreign funding.
-
Institutional funding -
position regarding funding from government which is not always pro people
flagged. (is there any instance of accepting anti-people projects by any JSA
constituent)
-
Principles, guidelines
required regarding institutional funding – to have clarity on political and practical questions. Keeping the
situation in JSA as well as the larger political situation.
-
Membership funds, crowdfunding as
alternatives to be considered.
-
Constituent organisations not to take
foreign funds in the name of JSA. JSA members that are receiving foreign funds
– if conflict of interest is found, then JSA should take a position on that.
-
Funding (other than foreign fund) / or
not taking funds by JSA should be decided on a case to case basis.
-
Transparency is critical in this
discussion - NCC meeting should have a dedicated session on funding, finances,
etc.
-
Impact of any kind of funding on the
voluntary part of organisation must be understood. Example of JAA perceived as
NGO despite voluntarism.
-
Starting point of the discussion
should be to identify what activities need resources, at national but also
state levels.
o
Ongoing coordination at national level
(sect) or state level needs dedicated human resources.
o
Resources have broadly been raised in
four ways
§ Voluntary
contribution by participants
§ Voluntary
contribution by organisers – from our own pocket contribute (must be
increased as much as possible)
§ Organizational
voluntarism – organisations say office available, person will give human time
(grey area – going on – haven’t discussed- some concerns. Large organization
can contribute more time and person – must do as per the JSA mandate and not
the priority of the organization) transparency
§ Institutional
funding – guidelines to be discussed.
-
Reference to Anant’s note –Annexures
4
o All
JSA work should be based on the analysis, understanding, ideas coming from
JSA’s analysis, charter or activities, ideas suggested by JSA activists and not
emerge from some funding source, funded project.
o In
all JSA work, the financial contributions should start from our internal
resources, like savings from income generated from previous activities,
voluntary contribution from our own pockets as individuals (in proportion to
our individual resources, affordability), voluntary contribution from our
organizations, from friends, supporters of JSA, people’s movements etc.
o An
estimate should be made about shortfall if any and decision be made whether or
not to seek supplementary institutional funding for a big activity.
o Routine
activity should primarily be a self-funded one. If supplementary institutional
funding is to be sought for some big programme, the decisions about
acceptability of the source, the amount, the modality, accounting, transparency
etc. should be made democratically, keeping in mind the basic JSA-framework.
o There
is an issue of overlap between JSA activities and project-activities by one or
more constituent NGOs in JSA. Both constituent NGOs in JSA and state/national
JSA should take care that such overlap, collaboration is avoided when possible
and when it happens, attempts be made to catalyze voluntary inputs into JSA and
that there is no erosion of voluntary resources, voluntary spirit in JSA.
o As
regards reporting of such funded activity to the funder, voluntary activities
either by JSA or any other voluntary group should not be included by the NGO in
the report to the funder. There is a need to assure all the concerned that in
case of such overlap between JSA activities and NGO-project, such reporting
does not occur. Towards this end, in the spirit of transparency, the
constituent NGO should send a copy of it’s project-report for the funder, to
the JSA secretariat.
o Unless
due precautions are taken, institutionally funding works like a steroid
medication inpatients, there is temporary improvement but continues dependence
is created.
-
Voluntarism is deficient –
how can this be concretely overcome; ways to strengthen voluntarism must be
deliberated.
o There
are advantages of voluntary work but limitations vis-a-vis accountability. It
is important to involve students, young people and other activist and poster
voluntarism.
Key
decisions / follow ups
-
JSA is not taking foreign funding. Constituent
organisations, therefore, should not receive foreign funds in the name of JSA.
A group to review
and revise the draft note by Anant Phadke by 15 June 2022: Anant Phadke, Chaya
Pachauli, Amulya, Abhay Shukla
2. Future representation from India region in PHM Global-Steering
Committee; use of PHM funds for activities in India; clarifying relationship
between JSA and PHM global
-
Moderators provided the background
about PHM, reasons for why JSA is part of the PHM and JSA contribution to PHM. India
is considered a region by PHM.
o
Amit Sengupta’s contribution to PHM
was acknowledged.
o
PHM secretariat located in India for a
long time, hosted by Sama.
o
All the work of the PHM secretariat –
was supported by the PHM fund.
o
Some PHM secretariat members
contributed time also to JSA.
-
The PHM Steering Council – each region has representatives to the PHM
SC. It is the decision making body of
the PHM and for governance.
o
Representatives can be part of the SC
– for three years followed by another three years.
o
Whether one or two representatives is
a decision of the region. No SC members
are funded.
o
For many years Dr Ekbal was the representative
to SC. After the South African PHA, Sarojini was representative to SC.
o
Current representatives are Amulya and
Sulakshana, which was decided by JSA some time before 2018 December at Savar.
o
Following detailed deliberation, the
meeting decided that Amulya and Sulakshana to continue.
o
Existing representatives should be
more proactive and interactive.
o
Representation to the SC – the work is
not to be underestimated; Globally it takes time to understand the context; two
terms allows this.
o
Others who want to be part of SC in
future – should get engaged in PHM processes – start contributing.
o
Ways of mentoring the next representatives
to be discussed.
o
Perhaps identify 3-4 potential people
– how they can be engaged till then – when opportunity emerges.
o
Towards more clarity about the role -
sharing by the current representatives is important.
-
Relationship between PHM and JSA needs
strengthening.
o
Some from JSA are engaged with PHM
global and others are not which is creating a dichotomy.
o
Articulation, communication is minimal
currently and is to be improved.
o
Clarity on Annual report to PHM
provided. Annual report to represent what different countries / regions are
doing / able to do, to share experiences towards solidarity.
o
Annual report to be shared in JSA
before sending to PHM.
o
Caution – recruited people to PHM work
– expectation that they should work here
not agreeable. Done earlier but not recommended.
o
EACT – funding clarified. Concern
about EACT report’s inclusion of reporting
of the communications and statements by AIDAN ( flagged by Malini Aisola) to be
addressed. Future of the report?
o
Other issues related to EACT were also
raised by members. There should be transparency in funding of PHM and its
implications for JSA activities.
o
Concerns for JSA India vis-a-vis
substantial funds for PHM from OSF and Ford Foundation were flagged. It was
clarified that PHM funders are beyond OSF and Ford; moreover, given JSA’s
decision against taking foreign funding, this concern is not relevant.
Key decisions / follow ups
-
Till NCC decides on criteria or any
other newer dimensions, current representatives – Sulakshana Nandi and Amulya
to continue for the next term.
-
In the organisational document,
revision suggested that NCC will recommend, not secretariat.
-
Criteria for PHM SC representation to
be developed.
-
Within next 6 months or next NCC to
identify – proactively ensure interaction and dissemination about PHM.
-
Annual report of JSA should be sent to
JSA NCC and thereafter to PHM.
-
Regarding IPHU, Global Health watch, WHO Watch, concerns raised about opaque
processes. Suggestion to defer to a group that decides on all of these issues –
to assess current process and what needs to be revised, to which NCC can inform
/ input. This is a very confusing and meaning less and the sentences are not
completed.
-
It was decided in interface between
JSA and PHM global will be organised by the representation of steering council
and old steering council members.
Decisions / follow ups based on
previous discussion:
-
Group to review the NCC list and
co-convenors (Raman, Sanjeev, Ameer, Renu) by 1 June 2022.
o Define
criteria and requirements – overall review of co-convenor group and functions
of the co-convening group, to be submitted to NCC
o Followed
by individual review of co-convenors
-
Secretariat –which are these
organisations should be finalised after talking to some groups.
o
Process to be carried out by a group
(Indranil, Chaya, Sarojini, Amulya and Abhay) – by 15 June. Roles and
responsibilities to be clearly communicated to organisations.
o
About secretariat coordination – host
organisations to decide – and propose to the NCC for its inputs. Timeline for
this to be decided.
-
Organisational document finalisation
based on inputs received by Richa, Prasanna and Deepa / end of May 2022.
-
An NCC ( online) proposed within a
month to move forward on key pending decisions/tasks.
D. JSA national level activity planning: moderators - Maimoona Mollah and
Gouranga
Decided
that every state will send a written report of state JSA activities within the
next 15 days to be compiled and shared. The session focused on planning action
/ activity / campaign at the national level.
Suggestions and discussion on issues
and possible activities / campaign nationally were shared by participants,
drawing on previous experiences.
Strategies / action points that
emerged from the discussion:
-
National level campaign on right to
health – announce this on 15 August 2022. Campaign declaration to be done on in
states , at district level, sub district level.
-
Campaign can be continued through till
April 2023.
-
Reach out to communities as a main
objective.
-
Mass signature campaign
-
Preparation of series of leaflets towards
building understanding on the issues to be raised – simple attractive one page
leaflet.
-
Evidence collection formats / tools for data / information collection
to be developed.
-
Generate testimonies, case studies, and
conduct of rapid surveys.
-
National convention will be held;
location for convening be decided.
-
Memorandums to MP, MLAs, policy
dialogues during the parliamentary sessions.
-
Preparation of slogans and
dissemination (CITU comrades can assist)
-
One or more workshops as required in
early July to concretise the plan.
-
A campaign on access to drugs at
national and state level was also discussed based on Dr Eqbals note on drug
price.
Issues / themes flagged in the
discussion
-
Rights to health and health care
-
Social determinants of health
-
Gender
-
Attack on women’s rights, minority
rights
-
Drug pricing / access to medicines
-
Privatisation / PPP
-
Health Insurance / AB
-
Climate crisis
-
Health right bill
-
New policy developments by Niti Ayog
to be understood / watched
Concluding
remarks by Amitava and expression of thanks to various persons / teams that
contributed to the meeting - coordinated / organised the meeting, moderators,
rapporteurs, etc. Participants thanked
Amitava and colleagues in CITU for making available Rammurthy Bhavan for this
JSA NCC meeting.
ANNEXURES
ANNEXURE 1.
Draft proposed agenda for JSA NCC
meeting – 14 and 15 May 2022, New Delhi
14th May
|
Time
|
Session
|
Moderator(s)
|
|
10.30
am – 12.00 pm
|
E.
Introductory session
Round of personal introductions by all
participants
Overview of objectives of this NCC meeting
and flow of agenda (by moderator)
Brief reflection by participants (2 minutes
each) on the following question–
·
In your opinion what is one area of
strength,and one area needing improvement, regarding JSA’s organisational
functioning?
|
Chhaya
Pachauli and Abhay Shukla
|
|
12.00
– 1.30 pm
|
F.
Revisiting and revamping JSA organisational
framework at national level
Review of the major decisions taken in the
last JSA NCC meeting (27 April 2021). Brief
recounting of various organisational processes and efforts carried out within
JSA at national level during the last one year.
Sharing of process, discussion and attempt
to reach agreement regardingdocument on organisational framework for JSA –
including reporting of discussions in sub-group, circulation of two drafts,
comparative analysis of drafts, proposal for resolving areas of difference
and synergising the two drafts.
Key aspects of revisiting and strengthening
JSA organisational framework:
· Overall review of functioning of NCC and National secretariat
· Clarifying the role and responsibilities of NCC members
· Clarifying role and composition of National secretariat
· Revisiting role and responsibilities of National co-convenors
· Decision making processes in JSA at national level
· Overall measures for JSA movement strengthening
|
Anant
Phadke and Renu Khanna
|
|
1.30
– 2.30 pm
|
Lunch
|
|
|
2.30
to 5.00 pm
|
B.
Session B (Revisiting and revamping JSA
organisational framework at national level) continued
|
Anant
Phadke and Renu Khanna
|
|
5.00
to 6.00 pm
|
G. Session
on key decisions and areas of debate requiring clarification
·
JSA position on taking institutional
funding
·
Future representation from India region in
PHM Global-Steering Committee; clarifying relationship between JSA and PHM
global
·
Issues related to JSA and the PHM-organised
EACT project
|
Ameer
and Sarojini
|
15th
May
|
Time
|
Session
|
Moderator(s)
|
|
10
– 11.30 am
|
Session
C (key decisions and areas of debate requiring clarification) continued.
Recap
of organisational decisions which have been taken in the meeting.
|
Ameer
and Sarojini
|
|
11.30
– 1.30 pm
|
H. JSA
national level activity planning
·
Brief reporting of state level activities
since last NCC meeting (7-8 mins per state)
|
Gouranga
and Maimoona Mollah
|
|
1.30
-2.30 pm
|
Lunch
|
|
|
2.30
– 5.00 pm
|
D. JSA
national level activity planning (contd.)
· Overview
of health policy and movement related challenges in present scenario
· Response
on urgent issues (e.g. drug price rise issue) and major recent policy
developments (Right to health policy / acts drafted in few states, digital
health policy, accelerated moves for healthcare privatisation etc.)
· Planning
for development of JSA strategy during the COVID recovery and post-COVID
situation – key areas requiring emphasis such as Public Health system
expansion, Private sector regulation, Post Covid situation interventions
–identifying sub-groups / persons who will draft specific thematic drafts /
action proposals on such areas in coming period. Emphasis will be on future
programmes and campaigns for JSA movement strengthening.
|
Gouranga
and Maimoona Mollah
|
|
5.00
– 5.30 pm
|
Summing
up of all decisions taken, plan for follow up of all decisions taken in this
NCC meeting, and tentative plan for next NCC meeting
|
Amitava
Guha
|
Note: Scope of the discussion need not be limited
to the points outlined, whichever relevant issues are felt important for
meeting the objectives of the session, will be taken for discussion based on
consensus.
Venue:
P. Ramamurty Bhawan
20 Pushp Vihar
Sector VI, M.V. Road, Saket,
New Delhi-110 0017
(Those who would avail
Metro Rail, may get down at Malviya Nagar Metro rail station (not at Saket
Metro station) and exit through the gate showing Max Hospital. Take bus
going to Saket Court. Get down at Singhania Hospital Stop. Cross the road and
take left road where Andhra School is situated. Opposite to this is P.R.
Bhawan.)
Annexure 2: Comparison of JSA organisational notes – 15 Nov. and
16 Nov. 2021 drafts
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Sections /
topics
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Sections from
15 Nov draft (15ND)
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Sections from
16 Nov draft (16ND)
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Comments
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1. Background
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The Jan Swasthya Abhiyan (JSA) was formed in 2001, with the
coming together of 18 national networks that had organised activities across
the country in 2000, in the lead up to the First Global Peoples Health
Assembly, in Dhaka, in December 2000. The JSA forms the Indian regional
circle of the global People’s Health Movement (PHM). At present it is one of
the major national platforms that co-ordinates activities and actions on
health and health care across the country. The JSA, today, is constituted of
by 21 national networks and organisations and state level JSA. The
constituents include a range of organisations, networks, NGOs, trade unions
working in the area of health, IP issues, food security and nutrition, gender
and health, environment, peoples’ science, occupational health to name a few
(Annexure 1 is the list of constituents).
|
JSA was formed
in 2001 and in first of its meeting decided to a minimum organizational shape
to function and lead health movement in India in the context of large
participation in the first Health Assembly at Kolkata and subsequently in the
first PHA held at Dhaka. Sometime later, in a meeting at Delhi a decision to
form JSA Secretariat was formed though no criteria or clear definition could
be thought of then. Sometime later, when JSA was provided fund from Dorabji
Tata Trust, core functioning was conducted by Sathi-SEHAT from Pune. Later
this functioning was shifted to Bhopal MPVS.
At the stage of
emergence of any structure it remains quite dispersed and no defined
structure can be formed, but when 18 years have gone by and the organization
enriched with three National Assemblies when more than 100 organizations
represented and many individuals have assembled under JSA, a better
structural definition could help functioning in somewhat systematic and
organized manner.
|
Points in both
drafts are complementary and could be combined. There is no discordance.
Some factual
additions / corrections are required for the 16ND – for example JSA national
secretariat was formed in JSA NCC meeting held in April 2003; the first
secretariat was hosted by SATHI-CEHAT with support from two Delhi based JSA
national organisers, without any institutional funding from mid-2003 to Nov.
2005. After this DTT funds became available, and based on decision in JSA NCC
these were used to support some JSA activities including People’s Rural
Health Watch, various preparatory meetings for NHA-II, and national
secretariat.
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|
2. Structures /
processes mentioned
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In addition, the organisational structure of JSA consists of
-
a. Co Convenors/Joint National Convenors
b. State Chapters/State Committees
c. National Secretariat
d. NCC
e. Thematic Groups
|
1. Membership in JSA
2. Organization
3. JSA National Co-ordination Committee
(JSA-NCC)
4. JSA Secretariat
5. JSA Advisory council
6. National Health Assembly
7. JSA
Statements
8.. Financial
resource
9.Annual report
10.
Representation in committees.
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Based on the
final set of issues that are covered in the JSA organisational document,
relevant points can be combined from both drafts.
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3. Principles
based on minutes of earlier JSA meetings
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Nagpur and Delhi Meetings’ Minutes –Summary
The Nagpur JSA NCC Meeting held in 2014, was an important
meeting where it was decided to formulate and circulate a set of ‘Guiding
Principles’ for JSA. The suggested
principles were arrived at after considerable discussions among the members. Some
of the core principles include -
1.
JSA state units should be organised
in a spirit that respects diversity and differences. JSA units should be inclusive, constantly
attempting to enlarge the involvement of different groups, organisations and
movements
2.
‘Open Functioning’ should be
encouraged as an organizational principle, ensuring that all JSA meetings are
‘open’ meetings that do not keep out people associated with the JSA even if
they are not part of the formal structures.
3.
All JSA state units should have
Multiple Convenors representing the diversity in the state JSA platform
4. Responsibilities, Accountability & Mandate of Secretariat
and Convenors will need to be clearly defined.
5.
Organising principles should include
some rules regarding periodicity of meetings of the state coordinating body,
circulation of decisions and minutes.
6.
There should be some principles that
would be followed regarding rotation of the State Secretariat hosting
responsibility as well as for convenors and co-convenors. A suggested
principle could be that the state Secretariat and co-convenors should rotate
every two terms of 2-3 years.
In 2018, at the Delhi NCC Meeting, it was acknowledged that JSA
structure lacked mechanisms to engage with various student groups and younger
people in a systematic manner. It was decided that a student and youth
subcommittee of JSA should be formed to involve students and youth and
coordinate their activities. The sub-committee should be represented in the
JSA NCC. This sub-committee would coordinate the involvement of students and
youth in thematic working groups and state JSA units.
The main points of these meetings have been incorporated in the
present note.
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Not mentioned
|
Principles
mentioned in 15ND provide some overall background and can be considered for
inclusion in the final document.
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4. Background
regarding present JSA organisational note (2021)
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In a joint meeting of the current National Secretariat and the
NCC co-convenors, held on July 28, 2021, a committee was formed to brainstorm
and come up with a draft organizational note. In the light of the discussions
held in the previous NCC meetings and the decisions taken therein, this draft
note was prepared.
The core objectives of this document are to provide
guidance on structure and functions of Jan Swasthya Abhiyan (JSA) and serve
as a guideline. This document would be discussed in the joint meeting of the
co-convenors and national secretariat and placed to the NCC for discussion
and ratification. Any further amendment to the document would need consent
from majority of the NCC members.
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Not mentioned
|
Background
mentioned in 15 Nov draft can be included in the covering email when the
document is circulated to JSA NCC, to provide clarity.
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5. JSA
Membership procedure
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Who
could be a member of JSA? There is no formal membership
process of JSA. Organisations, networks, groups who are part of the National
Coordination Committee of JSA and their members are part of JSA. Additionally
individuals who subscribe to JSA Manifesto and
pledge to work to strengthen Peoples’ Health Movement/JSA would be a member
of JSA. Members shall be preferably affiliated to the state chapters and
national organisations/ Networks of JSA.
|
Members shall
be from state level organizations and they would be registered with state
JSA. These organization members could be the state branch or associate of
national networks or organizations which are specific to that state. Each
organization shall send one or two members to the state JSA Co-ordination
Committee. Those health activists or intellectuals who can function as
resource persons can also be coopted as member but not be more than one third
of the regular members, JSA State co-ordination Committee will also form a
core team and thematic sub committees.
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Organisational
membership for state JSA units is emphasised in 16ND, with space for
individual resource persons upto 1/3 of regular members. 15ND also mentions
option of individual members. Points from both drafts can be combined.
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6. JSA Membership
principles
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Core
working principles of JSA members: Every
member of JSA and the NCC would endorse the JSA Manifesto and Charter; should uphold
values and principles enshrined under Indian constitution. JSA members should
uphold collective interest of JSA beyond individual interests; should follow
a democratic, inclusive and participatory approach in all her/his acts,
statements, gestures; should treat every other member of JSA with dignity and
respect; the acts and statements should be in consonance with and uphold the
principles of solidarity, non-discrimination, mutual respect; with the goal
to strengthen the movement. The JSA members must put their best efforts to
prevent any lobbying or spread of misinformation towards any fellow members
or organisation; should actively promote and practice a culture of debate and
discussion, respecting the boundaries of mutual respect and the right to
dissent. JSA has developed as a collective with no hierarchy inherent in the
structure. The members should follow the principle and not engage in any
practice that establishes or pushes for any sort of hierarchy among the
members.
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"Organization:
Those who accept JSA health Manifesto and are participating to the state and
national programmed of JSA but not merely involved in charitable work shall
be considered as organization."
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15ND proposes
more detailed working principles for JSA members. While these are useful,
since some new points are being suggested these would need to be discussed in
JSA NCC and then based on agreement, points may be appropriately included.
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7. JSA
National Coordination Committee -composition and meetings
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JSA NCC would consist of representatives from National
Organisations; networks; representatives from state JSA chapters, members of
the National Secretariat, National Co-convenors. NCC would also have
representatives from the working groups nominated by the working groups.
Each state would elect
a maximum of three members for representation in JSA NCC. National
organizations shall nominate two representatives to JSA NCC and national
networks should have three members nominated. NCC shall also include
individuals, groups from among the fellow travelers to participate in a specific
NCC meetings. All the founding members of JSA NCC, ex-national Co-convenors
would be permanently invited members of the NCC as advisors.
JSA NCC shall meet twice in a year at least, either through
online mode or physically, with preference given to at least one physical
meeting, subject to availability of resources.
|
Each state will
elect two members and another alternate member for representation in JSA NCC
from their state conference to be held at least once in two years. In this
conference/assembly the state will request at least one member of the JSA
Secretariat to attend. In states where there is no state organization has
been formed through state conference/assembly, JSA- NCC would form an ad-hoc
team who would contact all active
state organizations and people involved in health movement for a first state
JSA conference/assembly and form elected set up through the state
conference/assembly. National organizations shall send one member from them
as member of JSA NCC. JSA NCC shall meet twice in a year.
|
Regarding
membership in JSA NCC, 15ND outlines representation from state JSA chapters
(maximum of 3), similarly 16ND mentions two members + one alternate member.
16ND also mentions about ad hoc team in states which do not have a formed
state JSA unit and details process for formation of state JSA unit after
state conference.
15ND also
mentions about other types of representation in NCC besides from state units
(National resource organisations, National networks, National co-convenors,
Thematic working groups). There is also mention of invitees. These forms of
participation are mostly based on earlier discussions in JSA, but need
ratification by JSA NCC.
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8. Functions of the JSA NCC
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JSA NCC would take major decisions regarding the activities of
JSA:
·
Undertake necessary actions to carry
forward the JSA activities and vision; including issuing statements, organize
campaigns
·
Form the National Secretariat and
provide necessary directions to the Secretariat; review and oversee its
functioning;
·
Facilitate formation and functioning
of JSA state chapters;
·
Finalise all national level
publications of JSA
·
Coordinate with other organisations
and movements to strengthen JSA’s vision;
·
Recommend India’s representative/s
in the PHM international Steering Committee
·
Respond to any health emergencies;
·
Review the functioning of existing
thematic groups and activate and expand the groups
·
Periodically review the functioning
of the National Co-convenors
·
Every three years, there should be a
review in the representation to NCC from the State Committee, with at least
one new member.
·
Review of NCC’s own functioning once
in two years.
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Not separately
mentioned
|
15ND lays down
in detail functions of JSA NCC, which would be relevant for inclusion in the
final document, based on ratification by JSA NCC.
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9.
Selection and characteristics of National Co-convenors
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There will also be around ten national co-conveners elected by
the NCC from among the members who have been active in JSA for last at least
three- four years. The Co-convenors would hold position up to a maximum of
six years. The National Co-convenors
would appropriately represent the gender, caste, religious and other social
diversities of the country- would have at least half of its members as women
and significant section from among deprived social groups. At least forty
percent of the National Co-convenors should be below the age of 45 years,
with a maximum age limit of 65 years. Existing National Co-convenors who have
been there for more than ten years or have crossed 65 years would relinquish
their position, but continue as advisors.
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There shall be
a national Convener from the JSA Secretariat to be decided by the JSA
Secretariat and can continue up to three terms maximum. There will also be
five to seven national co-conveners selected by JSA Secretariat who would
function up to three years but cannot continue more than three consecutive
terms.
JSA NCC members
The selection
of joint convenors should be done through State convention and based on the
recommendation of State units all names of Joint convenor should be endorsed
by National assembly.
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There are
divergences between both drafts on selection and characteristics of National
Co-convenors. For example, 15ND states that they would be selected by JSA
NCC, while 16ND states that these would be selected by JSA secretariat. 15ND
specifies criteria such as gender and social background, and age limits for
co-convenors.
There is
another section in 16ND (highlighted) which states that selection of joint
convenors should be done through State convention and State units – this
needs clarification.
These points
would need to be discussed in JSA NCC to arrive at consensus.
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10.
Functions of the National Co-convenors
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Responsibilities of the various tasks of the Co-convenors would
be to
·
Help JSA in arriving at crucial
decisions and taking policy positions;
·
Lead JSA in various activities;
·
Coordinate with at least three state
chapters and facilitate the activities; and
·
Convene at least one thematic group;
·
Guide the secretariat;
·
Represent JSA at various fora;
·
Coordinate with various networks to
strengthen alliances and movements;
·
Draft various JSA publications
including statements, manifestos, position papers, press release etc.
·
Report back to the NCC from
states/networks and report about national activities/plans to states/networks
·
Other tasks entrusted by the
NCC.
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Not
specifically mentioned
|
15ND lays down
in detail functions of National co-convenors, which would be relevant for
inclusion in the final document, based on ratification by JSA NCC.
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11. Composition
and procedural issues related to JSA National Secretariat
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JSA Secretariat which will be selected by JSA NCC, shall be
responsible for day-to-day activities of the JSA. Once formed, the JSA
Secretariat would continue up to three years,
after which NCC would review the work and rotate the Secretariat if
necessary.
JSA NCC shall decide on the size, composition and location of
the National Secretariat. The members of the JSA Secretariat may or may not
be full time functionaries of JSA. Apart from members of national
organisations and networks, the Secretariat should involve young volunteers
periodically. Immediate attention would be paid to generate resources to run
a full-time functioning National Secretariat.
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JSA Secretariat
which will be selected by JSA NCC, shall be responsible for day today
activities of the organization. Once formed, the JSA Secretariat would
continue up to three years.
Meanwhile after
the state JSA Co-ordination Committee conference is
completed, the
JSA Secretariat shall be formed within a year after state conference is
completed.
JSA NCC shall
decide number and persons for formation of the Secretariat. JSA Secretariat,
apart from urgent situation shall meet once in three months (quarterly) in a
year. The member of the JSA Secretariat may or may not be full time
functionary of JSA. A team of full time JSA functionaries shall be created to
run the national center.
The national
seceteriate should functional as rotational basis and every three to five
years the host organization should be changed.
|
Both drafts
mention many similar points related to formation and composition of the JSA
national secretariat, which can be combined.
Some points in
16ND (highlighted) are not clear and need to be clarified.
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12. Roles of
National secretariat
|
As mentioned above, the National Secretariat is a body
responsible for executing the plans and agenda of the JSA NCC. The
Secretariat would work according to the guidance provided by the NCC.
·
Shall be responsible for day-to-day
activities of the JSA
·
Bring out various communications,
statements;
·
Manage social media and web content;
organize press conferences;
·
Ensure regular meetings of the NCC;
·
Organize various events, coordinate
campaigns and movements,
·
Facilitate state level actions and
help in the functioning of state chapters;
·
Organize thematic group meetings
·
It would also inform the NCC about
various key issues and seek guidance.
·
The Secretariat would meet at least
once a month virtually and
·
Would conduct a joint meeting of the
National Co-convenors and Secretariat at least a month before the NCC. The
Co-convenors and the secretariat should meet at least once in four
months.
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Not detailed.
|
15ND proposes
details regarding the role of National secretariat which appear relevant, and
may be included in the final document based on ratification by JSA NCC.
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|
13.
Convener of the National Secretariat
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There shall be a Convener
of the National Secretariat to be elected by the JSA NCC who would
continue up to three maximum years. The responsibility of regular convening
of National Secretariat; coordination among secretariat members, Co-convenors
would rest on the Convenor.
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There shall be
a national Convener from the JSA Secretariat to be decided by the JSA Secretariat
and can continue up to three terms maximum.
|
Points are
largely similar, both drafts can be combined.
15ND proposes
continuation for three years at maximum, while 16ND proposes three terms,
what is meant by ‘terms’ is not clear and needs to be specified.
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14.
JSA Advisory council
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Not mentioned
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JSA
Advisory council:
JSA
Secretariat shall select not more than one third of the members of its
Secretariat certain individuals who do not belong to any organization but are
contributing to movement. This Advisory council shall be invited to
participate to JSA Secretariat meetings in alternate JSA Secretariat
meetings. They may also be included in sub- committees or event wise groups,
if formed in pursuance to programme or in representing JSA in national meetings/seminars
or meetings with government and other authorities.
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16ND proposes
JSA advisory council to participate in alternate JSA secretariat meetings.
Since this would be a new body which has not been discussed in detail in JSA
NCC, this requires decision in JSA NCC.
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|
15. Composition
of JSA state chapters and JSA State committees
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JSA
State Chapters: JSA state chapters shall comprise of
state representatives from national organisations, networks, state level
member organisations and individuals who endorse JSA Manifesto.
JSA
State Committees (SC): The SC would be elected from
the members present in the General Body Meeting of the State chapter. There
would be efforts to have at least a third of the total members present in the
state GBM. The tenure of the SC would be maximum of three years. Members of
the SC would hold the position for two terms at the maximum and every new SC
would have at least a third of the new members.
The SC would elect two-three state conveners and JSA NCC
representatives.
The membership of JSA SC would appropriately represent the
gender, caste, religious, linguistic and other social diversities. SC would
have at least half of its members as women in the SC and significant section
among deprived social groups. Special efforts would be undertaken to include
a third of the members below 35 years of age. All members above 65 years of
age would be relieved from SC responsibilities but would continue to be part
of JSA state chapter as members and advisors.
In states where there is no state chapter formally established through
state conference/assembly, JSA-NCC
would form a
committee, who would contact all active state organisations and people
involved in health movement for a first state JSA conference/assembly.
|
Not dealt with
in detail.
One related
process (mentioned above in section 7) is as follows:
In states where
there is no state organization has been formed through state
conference/assembly, JSA- NCC would form an ad-hoc team who would contact all
active state organizations and people involved in health movement for a first
state JSA conference/assembly and form elected set up through the state
conference/assembly.
|
15ND proposes
certain details regarding composition of JSA state chapters which appear
relevant, and may be included in the final document based on ratification by
JSA NCC.
Regarding
formation of JSA state units in newer states, both drafts suggest a similar
process, can be finalised.
|
|
16.
Functions of the JSA State Committee
|
·
Coordination with NCC, state level
campaigns/ actions;
·
Organizing regular meetings of the
members (at least twice a year);
·
Formation and functioning of state
working groups;
·
Liaison with other state level
networks and campaigns;
·
Disseminate national level
publications in local language;
·
Develop state specific campaigns
materials;
·
Regular reporting of the national
level activities at the state level and vice-versa.
·
The state convenors and NCC
representatives would be responsible for regular functioning of SC; coordinate with the NCC and catalyzing
state level thematic groups;
·
All efforts should be made to rotate
and handover state coordination and such efforts should be reported to the
NCC
|
Not dealt with
|
15ND proposes
details regarding the functions of JSA state committee which appear relevant,
and may be included in the final document based on ratification by JSA NCC.
|
|
17.
National Health Assembly
|
NHA shall be held once in four years. The NCC would decide date,
venue of the NCC; form organizing committees taking help from the National
Secretariat to organize the Assembly. Every state chapter would have State
Assemblies before the national assembly.
|
NHA shall be held
once in three years. JSA Secretariat shall prepare, programme of NHA
including agenda, topics of plenary and sub-plenary; workshops, etc. JSA
Secretariat in consultation with JSA NCC shall also prepare names of
facilitators/moderators of each meetings/workshop.
It was decided
in NCC that every three years we will do National assembly and the tenure of
all functionary should be three years. However, state can select the
representing for two consecutive terms.
|
Both drafts
mention similar points and can be combined. Whether NHA is held after 3 years
or 4 years in any particular situation, could be decided based on practical
considerations at that time.
One point from
16ND (highlighted) needs clarification).
|
|
18. JSA
Statements
|
Any member of the NCC can propose for JSA to undertake a
statement on a relevant issue, which should be seconded by at least one tenth
of members of the NCC. If there are clearly articulated opposition to the
statement proposal, NCC shall take the final call for appropriate action
based on democratic and collective functioning. The task of coordinating the
drafting of the statement would rest on the National Secretariat, who would
set up a team to draft statement.
Any proposal to bring out joint statement(s) with other
organisations/ campaigns networks and member organisations should be ratified
by at least one tenth of the members of the NCC. In case JSA is asked to sign
any joint statement issued by other fellow organisations/ individuals, it
needs to be ratified by the NCC. The NCC should be provided at least 24 hours
to respond.
Statements, which are state specific should be developed by the
SC; National Secretariat to be kept in the loop.
The NCC should be provided at least forty eight hours to respond
to any statement, unless there are clearly justified emergencies.
|
All the
statements should be released by Secteriate and not directly by NCC. Based on
the suggestions and endorsement of NCC the secteriate can release the
statement.
In all the states
there are state level coordination team which works depending upon the state
level situation and activeness of State units. Any Statements which are
related to State specific issue
should be finalized in consultation with State JSA units and if required
released by JSA National secteriate.
If any
Statements with is jointly prepared the background of organization should be
done by State and national JSA
Secteriat. One third members endorsement of the Secretariat should be
compulsory for releasing any statements unless it's not an emergency
situation.
All the
statements should be released in the name of JSA and for joint statement on
specific issue in which the network organization has expertise or long
experience joint statements can be released.
While endorsing
any statement, it should be measured how much responsibility are expected to
bestow on JSA.
|
Points in both
drafts are overlapping, however some points in 16ND need clarification or
better drafting (highlighted). Based on such clarifications, both drafts can
be combined and finalised through ratification by JSA NCC.
|
|
19.
Representation of JSA in other forums / events
|
Any NCC member, member of SC, National Co-convenor and National
Secretariat member, if invited to address a public event should inform JSA
NCC/ respective state chapter if she/he is representing JSA. Needless to say,
every member is free to attend any event on her/ his individual capacity.
However, any statement/ declaration signed on behalf of JSA, as
part of the event should be endorsed by the NCC.
On urgent occasions like Govt. meetings which usually provide a
short notice, National Secretariat should be consulted by email.
Co-organizer of events: Whenever JSA is co-organizing any event,
the Secretariat has to seek permission from the NCC.
|
All names of
such representation should be endorsed by NCC.
|
15ND proposes
details regarding procedure for representation of JSA in other forums /
events. There is no substantial divergence between the drafts. Points from
15ND may be included in the final document based on ratification by JSA NCC.
|
|
20. JSA
related financial resources and funding
|
As discussed in the previous NCC meetings (Refer to Nagpur 2014,
2011, 2007 minutes) JSA NCC may take efforts to raise resources for running
of the secretariat. A committee of five persons from NCC should review any
proposal of project funding which furthers the vision and mission of JSA.
Based on the recommendations of the committee JSA NCC should take the final
decision.
|
JSA should make
a dedicate team for rising financial resources which can be only India funds
and largely individual and membership contribution. All state chapter can
contribute Rs. two thousand to Rs,10 thousand yearly depending upon the
members of State. All Network organizations can also contribute fixed yearly
contribution. This amount can be Rs. two thousand to Rs.10 or more.
As JSA members
individually can contribute Rs.500 Rs. to Rs 5000/ yearly
Organizational
funds
JSA can only
take organized Indian funds of required but for specific activities or
campaign. The day-to-day secretariat related functions shall be managed by
resources generated by its own and should not depend upon external funding.
If any network
organization is taking funds in the name of JSA it should be discussed in
NCC.
|
16ND mentions
suggested amounts for State, Network and Individual contributions. These can
be discussed in JSA NCC and finalised by consensus.
Both documents
have a difference on the acceptable source of resources for running the
Secretariat – 16ND states that this should be internally generated and no
external funding be sought for secretariat functioning, while 15ND suggests
that efforts be taken for raising resources for the secretariat. This issue
needs discussion in JSA NCC.
|
|
21. JSA
representation in PHM, and use of PHM funds for activities in India
|
Not mentioned.
|
Secretariat
shall recommend name/s from the Convener and Co-conveners for representation
in the Steering Committee of international PHM.
PHM takes
organized funding for JSA from donor agencies which have no controversy. Any
funds which PHM is taking and if it's going to route or used for India
specific activities it should be discussed and approve by JSA NCC. All the
annual reports and financial report of PHM should be shared to JSA NCC.
|
16ND proposes
principles to be followed regarding use of PHM funds for activities in India,
which would be associated with JSA in some form. These principles may be
ratified in JSA NCC and included in final document.
|
|
22. Annual
report from JSA to PHM
|
Not mentioned.
|
Every year the
donor organization require report from PHM and JSA India has also been
sending annual report to PHM. All annual reports should be discussed and
endorsed by JSA NCC
|
16ND proposes
that annual reports regarding JSA activities from JSA to PHM should be
discussed in JSA NCC. This basic
procedural step may be ratified in JSA NCC and included in final document.
|
|
23.
Thematic groups
|
Thematic groups play a very critical role in the functioning of
JSA. The NCC would review the functioning of existing thematic groups, if
required form new groups; entrust the Secretariat and Co-convenors to form
the groups from among the members of JSA working across various states, national
organisations, networks and other individuals who are contributing to the
respective fields.
Some thematic areas that were identified and groups formed are –
a. Strengthening, Expanding and Reorienting the Public health
system (including health workforce)
b. Privatisation and PPPs (including Insurance schemes)
c. Pvt. Sector Regulation and Patients’ Rights
d. Gender and Health - Maternal Health, SRHR, Violence, etc.
e. Access to Drugs, Devices and Diagnostics: Free Drugs, DPCO,
Clinical Trials
f. Public Services and Social Determinants
Functions of the thematic groups:
·
The Thematic Group would function as
policy watches, help JSA NCC to take position on policy issues;
·
Help National Secretariat to bring
out statements, position papers; campaign materials;
·
Organize thematic campaigns, events
and training.
·
One member from the National
Secretariat/ National Co-convenor would coordinate the Thematic Group.
·
There would be representation at the
NCC from each Thematic Group, selected from among the members.
|
Not mentioned.
|
15ND proposes
details regarding Thematic groups which are an important aspect of JSA
functioning.
Points from
15ND may be included in the final document based on ratification by JSA NCC.
|
|
24.
Specific Internal Committees
|
Internal
Committees on gender sensitization and prevention of sexual harassment;
internal complaint committees: JSA NCC should
set up these committees to prevent sexual harassment and look after various
forms of discrimination practiced within JSA and its activities.
|
Not mentioned.
|
15ND mentions
formation of certain new committees to prevent sexual harassment and
discrimination within JSA. While these are in line with JSA principles, being
a new set of bodies not discussed earlier, these will need discussion in JSA
NCC.
|
|
25. Youth
sub-committee
|
JSA
Youth Sub-committee: A special sub-committee should
formed in line with the 2018 NCC meeting recommendation, who should be
represented in the NCC.
|
Not mentioned.
|
15ND mentions
need for Youth sub-committee which had been planned in JSA NCC meeting in
2018. Being based on existing NCC decision this could be included in the
final document.
|
Annexure 4-
Institutional Funding and JSA: Proposed Guidelines
Anant Phadke
The tradition
I
think, right from the inception of the JSA, a certain perspective about
institutional funding and JSA work has been understood and agreed upon, without
explicit discussing about it. This is because we, the founding members of JSA
and those in the NCC mostly come from some background in Peoples’ Movements and
want to contribute voluntarily to build JSA as a movement. Many NGOs and
persons who are part of JSA have been routinely receiving foreign/Indian funds
for their respective NGOs and have also been voluntarily contributing to JSA by
working for JSA beyond office hours. Some NGOs have also been using some of
their organizational resources like computers, office space, some
administrative help etc. on a voluntary basis. (“Organizational voluntarism”).
Such organizational voluntarism is I think welcomed in JSA and in my view does
not require a discussion. It is also widely understood in JSA that some NGOs
can do some pro-people survey work or some educational or some constructive work which can be helpful to the
cause of the ordinary people and such work can also facilitate the work of JSA.
However, JSA’s work is quite different from NGO work; it is that of a people’s
movement and voluntarism is the principal strength of any movement.
In
the past, Institutional funding has been taken for some JSA-work as such like
the National Health Assembly-II or for catalyzing submissions to NHRC on
violations of health rights. Based on a
consensus decision, such funding may be received through contracts with some
JSA-linked individuals or be received by some JSA-linked NGO for JSA work.
While accepting such funds, it was understood that care should be taken that
this would catalyze voluntary inputs in JSA to enhance it’s work as that of a
coalition of volunteers. It is necessary that this tradition, understanding is
formally noted, endorsed, modified (if necessary) by the current the NCC.
There
is some apprehension that perhaps currently there is no clarity about this
issue across all JSA activists and hence there is a need to reaffirm this broad
perspective. There is also a need to lay broad guidelines for accepting
institutional funding if any for JSA work. The overall care to be taken is –JSA
should be strengthened as a movement and it should acquire an image as a
coalition of volunteers for People’s Health Movement and not more of an NGO
conglomeration; that the distinction between voluntary and professional work is
not blurred. Towards this end, I would suggest the following draft guidelines
for consideration –
Proposed draft guidelines
1)
All
JSA work should be based on the analysis, understanding, ideas coming from
JSA’s analysis, charter or activities, ideas suggested by JSA activists and not
emerge from some funding source, funded project.
2)
In
all JSA work, the financial contributions should start from our internal
resources, like savings from income generated from previous activities,
voluntary contribution from our own pockets as individuals (in proportion to
our individual resources, affordability), voluntary contribution from our
organizations, from friends, supporters of JSA, people’s movements etc etc. An
estimate should be made about shortfall if any and decision be made whether or
not to seek supplementary institutional funding for a big activity. Routine
activity should primarily be a self-funded one. If supplementary institutional
funding is to be sought for some big programme, the decisions about
acceptability of the source, the amount, the modality, accounting, transparency
etc. should be made democratically, keeping in mind the basic JSA-framework.
3)
There
is an issue of overlap between JSA activities and project-activities by one or
more constituent NGOs in JSA. Both constituent NGOs in JSA and state/national
JSA should take care that such overlap, collaboration is avoided when possible
and when it happens, attempts be made to catalyze voluntary inputs into JSA and
that there is no erosion of voluntary resources, voluntary spirit in JSA.
4)
As
regards reporting of such funded activity to the funder, voluntary activities
either by JSA or any other voluntary group should not be included by the NGO in
the report to the funder. There is a need to assure all the concerned that in
case of such overlap between JSA activities and NGO-project, such reporting
does not occur. Towards this end, in the spirit of transparency, the
constituent NGO should send a copy of it’s project-report for the funder, to
the JSA secretariat.
********************
Rapporteurs Team
Richa, Prasanna, Indranil, Amulya, Deepa and Rakesh.
