Scrutiny and control of women's sexuality and women's reproductive role by the state are well recognized in the history of societies [Sarkar 1993]. Tribal wars over possession of women were rooted in the struggle for survival of the tribe itself.

The Shodhini experience has been able to draw upon a range of disciplines in an attempt to develop a woman-centered health care alternative.

The Ford Foundation recently commenced a planning exercise to define a strategy for the program area entitled "Advocacy for Reproductive Health and Women's Empowerment" in India. This report outlines the findings of this