Myths of Reproductive Profligacy of Poor Evidence from Mandya District

Abstract

Literature is replete with images of the reproductive profligacy of the poor in India. In much popular nderstanding, this is frequently adduced as the cause of the poverty of the poor and indeed of the country. From travelers such as Abbe Dubois early in the 19th century, to the Census Commissioner of 1891 and indeed to even the Bhore Committee Report, this motif is constantly refurbished. For instance, as it went on to recommend a family planning program for the country, the Bhore Committee noted: