June 27 – July 10, 2024
As the second phase of Population Stabilization Fortnight approaches, the Yogi Adityanath government is poised to kickstart a series of activities aimed at raising awareness about family planning across communities. Scheduled from June 27 to July 10, this phase is strategically designed to engage the public through initiatives such as ‘Sarathi Vahan’ and ‘Saas-Beta-Bahu Sammelan’.
Building upon the groundwork laid during the ongoing first phase (June 1 – June 20), which targets motivating specific couples and laying the groundwork for forthcoming activities, the government is determined to make family planning facilities more accessible. Health units across the state will provide consultations on various family planning methods, ensuring services are available for eligible beneficiaries.
Principal Secretary of Medical, Health, and Family Welfare, Parth Sarathi Sen Sharma, has issued comprehensive guidelines to District Magistrates and Chief Medical Officers to ensure effective implementation at the grassroots level. The concerted efforts of officials, health workers, and the community underscore the importance of Population Fortnight in driving societal awareness and participation.
Underpinning this year’s theme, ‘Right time and gap of pregnancy for the health of mother and child,’ the campaign aims to redefine India’s developmental trajectory while celebrating every couple’s decision to embrace family planning. Notably, the state’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has witnessed a decline, as reflected in the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019-20).
Dr. Suryansh Ojha, General Manager of the Family Welfare Program, emphasized the program’s modern approach, focusing on community engagement, health worker training, and leveraging technology through the Family Planning Logistic Management Information System (FPLMIS) portal. This portal plays a pivotal role in managing and inspecting family planning resources at all levels.
In a bid to bolster operations in districts lacking dedicated family planning counselors, counselors from other programs will receive specialized training. Temporary family planning methods, including contraceptive injections, pills, and devices, will be made available, ensuring a comprehensive range of options for couples to make informed choices about their reproductive health.
With concerted efforts and innovative strategies, the Population Stabilization Fortnight aims to herald a new era of informed family planning decisions, thereby contributing to the health and well-being of both mothers and children in Uttar Pradesh.
