4 days ago
Teenage marriages in state more than nat'l average: Experts
Ranchi: An awareness chariot was flagged off by the state health department on Thursday to generate public awareness about the 'Population Stabilisation Campaign' as part of World Population Day from July 11 to 18, which will run across all 24 districts.
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In Ranchi, it was jointly launched by civil surgeon Dr Prabhat Kumar, along with nodal officer of information education officer, Dr Lal Manjhi, state nodal officer of family planning, Dr Pushpa, and Gunjan Khalkho, consultant of family planning.
According to the latest block-wise head count survey (2025–26), Ranchi district has a total population of 35,90,183, with the highest concentration in Ranchi Urban (13,90,186), followed by Kanke (3,84,660) and Itki (1,82,374).
As per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) data for the state, the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) dropped from 4.0 (NFHS-2, 1998–99) to 2.3 (NFHS-5, 2019–21). The state has around 4 crore population.
According to experts, the use of modern contraceptives increased from 31.1% (NFHS-3, 2005-2006) to 49.5% (NFHS-5, 2019-2021). The state is also a pioneer in inclusivity, preparing a Braille booklet on reproductive and family health for the visually impaired, showcasing its commitment to accessible health education.
Dr Pushpa said, "Since 2018, innovative methods such as Chhaya (weekly pill), MPA-IM/MPA-SC injections, and implants have been introduced to diversify family planning options. The increase in contraceptive use led to an improvement in the Couple Year of Protection Rate (CYPR)." Dr Manjhi said, "The state's rate of teenage marriage (32.3%) is higher than the national average (23.3%), posing serious health risks to young mothers and their children.
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Dr Pushpa elaborated on the shift in focus from permanent contraceptive methods to modern, reversible methods such as Chhaya (weekly pill), injectables, and the recently introduced implant method, currently available at Sadar Hospital. "Our goal is to empower couples to decide when they want to start a family. A woman should conceive only when she is mentally and physically prepared," she said.
