India’s Population Problem Studied

Press, Volume CV, Issue 31023, 31 March 1966, Page 20

India’s Population Problem Studied

(N.Z.P. A.-Reuter—Copyright) NEW YORK, March 30. India’s population will more than double to 1000 million in the next 25 years if present trends continue, said a United Nations report. However, an effective family planning programme could reduce the soaring birth-rate by one third in the next 10 years. These are conclusions of five United Nations family planning experts who visited India from February to April last year at the request of the Government. The report said the rate of population growth, with its crippling effect on development, could not be reduced “unless an attack on fertility is made at once through family planning.” To be successful the programme would demand “a national movement or crusade

which must involve the total apparatus of the Government, political and official and the support of the voluntary organisations, and indeed all social units,” the report said. It was believed the loop—a small metal or plastic coil inserted into the womb—would make the major contribution to a reduction of the birthrate.

But to reach the set target, energetic measures would also be needed to raise the age of marriage and promote other changes to reduce fertility.

The Government would have to intensify the sterilisation programme, expand domestic production of contraceptive devices and improve methods of distribution.

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