Jaipur, May 13, 2025: In the rural areas of Rajasthan, newlywed and young couples are increasingly prioritizing planned childbearing and spacing between children over early and frequent pregnancies. They are beginning to realize that preparing themselves mentally, physically, and financially is essential for a healthy and happy life.
Dr. S.S. Shekhawat, Director of Family Welfare, Directorate of Medical and Health Services, Jaipur, said, “Maintaining an appropriate gap between births improves the health of mothers and ensures proper nutrition and care for the newborn. It also strengthens the mental and financial stability of the entire family. Frequent pregnancies with short intervals can lead to health complications and high-risk deliveries.”
With this evolving mindset, the trend of delaying the first child by at least two years and maintaining a minimum gap of three years between two children is growing. To achieve this, young couples are increasingly opting for safe and Reversible contraceptive methods such as Antara injections, contraceptive pills, condoms, and IUCDs. These methods give them the freedom to make informed decisions based on their personal circumstances.
The ‘Vikalp’ project, implemented by Ipas Development Foundation, has played a vital role in facilitating this positive change. As the technical support to the government, the project is supporting various platforms such as door-to-door counselling, Saas-Bahu Sammelans (mother-in-law and daughter-in-law meetings), and Village Health Sanitation and Nutrition Days (VHSND). Through these platforms, the Vikalp project aims to provide practical and scientific information to young couples and their families, enabling them to make informed choices.
Mr. Arun Nair, State Project Director of Vikalp, stated, “Our goal goes beyond just providing information. We strive to create an enabling environment where every couple can make informed decisions. In recent months, we have reached a large number of women through VHSNDs and Saas-Bahu Sammelans, and many have adopted the Antara injection as their contraceptive method of choice.”
As part of this effort, the Vikalp project also offers a free ‘Sakhi’ helpline service (Toll-Free Number – 1800 202 5862) for information or counseling related to temporary contraceptive methods. Women or couples can contact the helpline from 8 AM to 8 PM. The service ensures complete confidentiality, and trained counselors provide guidance in simple language.
Stories from rural communities stand as testimony to this transformation, where women are now taking key life decisions independently. One woman shared, “When the ASHA worker visited us after our marriage and gave us the correct information, we realized for the first time that delaying childbirth could be a wise decision. We opted for the Antara injection, and now we are confidently managing our lives.” Such initiatives are not only empowering women with autonomy in their reproductive decisions but also paving the way for healthier, happier, and self-reliant communities.
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