Patna : Despite Bihar’s intensified efforts to promote family planning, a stark imbalance has emerged between temporary and permanent methods. While districts like Bhagalpur have exceeded expectations in distributing condoms, they lag significantly behind in adopting long-term contraceptive solutions such as sterilization, contraceptive pills, injections, and intrauterine devices (IUDs).
Family Planning Fortnight: A Tale of Contrasts
Between March 17 and 29, 2025, Bihar observed a statewide Family Planning Fortnight aimed at encouraging responsible reproductive health choices. The campaign saw massive public outreach and government-backed incentives. Among the 38 districts, Bhagalpur stood out—distributing 2,50,893 condoms against a target of 1,21,750, achieving 206% of its goal and ranking first in Bihar.
However, the district’s performance in permanent family planning methods tells a different story. In female sterilization, Bhagalpur managed just 41% of its target—1,258 procedures out of 2,010—placing it at 15th statewide. Even more concerning was male sterilization: only one man came forward for the procedure against a target of 100, putting the district near the bottom at 30th place.
Statewide Numbers Reflect a Wider Concern
The trends in Bhagalpur mirror a broader challenge across Bihar. The state had aimed to distribute 46.84 lakh condoms, ultimately achieving 70% of this target. However, sterilization numbers lagged far behind. Only 28,048 women underwent sterilization out of a target of 67,260—a success rate of just 41%.
Male sterilization numbers were even more dismal, with many districts reporting single-digit figures or none at all. This is despite the fact that male sterilization is simpler, less invasive, and quicker to recover from than female sterilization.
Top Performers and Laggards
While Bhagalpur led in condom distribution, other districts like Munger (151%), East Champaran (118%), Lakhisarai (116%), and Jehanabad (114%) also performed well.
In female sterilization, West Champaran (82%), Madhepura (77%), Araria (76%), Banka (69%), and Vaishali (69%) emerged as top contributors.
For male sterilization, Sheikhpura led with 68%, followed by Vaishali (45%), Arwal (34%), Banka (33%), and Nawada (29%).
Incentives and Indifference
The Bihar government offers financial incentives to encourage sterilization: Rs 3,000 for male sterilization and Rs 2,000 for female sterilization, with additional payments to the motivators. Post-delivery sterilizations for women come with an even higher incentive of Rs 3,000. There are also incentives for methods like Antara injections and copper-T insertions.
Despite these measures, uptake remains low. Health experts believe that a mix of cultural stigma, misinformation, and deep-seated gender roles are behind the resistance—particularly among men.
A Challenge for the Government
The “double engine” government led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has made family planning a key focus, recognizing its importance in managing the state’s population growth. Yet, the data from the Family Planning Fortnight reveals that awareness alone isn’t enough. While temporary measures like condoms are gaining traction, a widespread reluctance persists toward permanent solutions.
Experts emphasize the need for sustained education, community engagement, and male participation. “Family planning is not just a woman’s responsibility,” said a senior official from the Health Department. “Until men step forward, true progress will remain out of reach.”
