Previous Year Question
Which one of the following countries was the first to adopt family planning programme officially?
Brazil
USA
India
China
Correct Answer: C
Detailed Solution
India was the first country in the world to launch a National Family Planning Programme in 1952.
The initial objective of the programme was to control rapid population growth and achieve population stabilization by reducing the birth rate.
Over time, the approach of the programme underwent significant changes. Its focus expanded beyond population control to include maternal health, child health, reproductive health, contraceptive choice and voluntary family planning.
Later, the National Population Policy, 2000 placed greater emphasis on reproductive and child health along with population stabilization and voluntary and informed choice.