The population problem and family planning effort with particular reference to India.

A reduction in fertility hastens and sustains a fast rate of economic development. In India it was recognized that population pressures can be met most effectively if family planning measures are implemented side by side with economic developmental programs. In the 2 first 5 - Year Plans of 1951-1961 the clinical approach to family planning was emphasized but with little effect on the growth rate. Thus a switch was made in subsequent plans to the extension approach aiming at promoting voluntary acceptance of contraception through education and motivation. It is estimated that 7.4 million births were averted by 1970-1971 but the birth rate only decreased from 41.7 per 1000 in 1951-1960 to 37 per 1000 in 1970. Effort should be concentrated on couples favorably inclined to family planning rather than trying to reach everyone regardless of their attitudes and motivations. Present efforts are aimed at women 30 or over with 2 or 3 children but to promote a sustained effort at fertility control sucess will depend on the education and motivation of young couples.