Thoughts on India's most pressing problems--population control and sound family planning
Jackson, M.C.
Parivar Ayojan 2: 5-7
1968
ISSN/ISBN: 0254-4563 PMID: 12338666 Document Number: 406401
There is little opposition to the idea of family planning in India, and a greater sense of urgency at the top than there was 10 years ago. But the essential drive and good planning to get a nationwide program going is still lacking. 1 of the great difficulties is to get vital statistics. Family size is down to 2 or 3 in large cities, but in rural areas, where 80% of the population lives, average family size is 5 or more. If infant mortality could be substantially reduced, parents would be more willing to accept the idea of a small family. Sterilization is off to a good start but is being applied too late in reproductive life. The law on abortion needs revision and liberalization. Of the conventional methods of birth control, the only one that is likely to be of value is the condom. The IUD offers great advantages for India had the program started sooner. Hormone therapy was banned by the government until 1966. The rhythm method properly taught and used with determination, and a basal temperature chart can be most effective.