The arithmetic of sterilization in India.

Abstract

Since 1958 the Indian government has emphasized sterilization as an effective and inexpensive method of population control. Calculations indicate that the problem of population control in India cannot be solved through sterilization alone because the numbers are too great for it to be feasible. Sterilization is unlikely to become popular with young couples. It is irreversible and does not appeal to people in areas where infant and child mortality is high. IUDs will be a more effective method of population control.