Karnataka: 4 districts in Karnataka part of National Family Planning Program

The National Family Planning Program seeks to promote birth spacing, This is in line with their vision of preventing maternal and infant morbidities and mortalities. 40 districts across 10 states have been identified for testing new options, the results of which would indicate if these plans can be introduced to the nation at large. These options include subdermal single rod implants and subcutaneous injectables. Health centers have been identified in Bengaluru, Bidar, Mysuru and Yadgir wherein these options would be put to use. The plan is to set things in motion by the end of September. 

Subdermal single rod implants would be introduced in KC General, Vani Vilas Hospitals in Bengaluru and Government MCH Hospital and Bidar Institute of Medical Sciences in Bidar. The subcutaneous injectables would be introduced in Mysuru and Yadgir in a vertical line from Medical College level to sub-centre level as per State Health Commissioner Randeep D’ s statements reported by The Hindu. 10,008 single rod implants have been procured and 20,000 injectables would be available latest by next week, he stated. 

Chandrika B.R, State Deputy Director (Family Welfare), stated that 56.2% of births in Karnataka are poorly spaced. This is marginally above the national average of 47.7%.