In most demographic surveys, respondents are asked to state their desired family size and whether they intend to have additional children. However, the predictive accuracy of their statements about future fertility has been the subject of considerable controversy.

Demographic literature is replete with observations of an inverse relation between certain attributes of modernity and family size (Thompson 1929; Notestein 1945; Coale and Hoover 1958; Leiberman 1980, Srinivasan 1986).

Though fertility is a biological phenomenon there are a number of other factors influencing the levels and differentials of fertility among tribals.

Squinting against the glare of the harsh fluorescent lights, a balding, middle aged man wearing a checked shirt and a worried look sat at the edge of the plastic chair in the white-tiled corridor of Bombay's Jaslok Hospital, tapping his foot on the floor with increasing nervousness.

Population projections help in the formulation of policies directed towards meeting desired goals. Such projections cannot be considered as a one time event as new directions for policies and programs can emerge when the exercise is repeated.

Research in fertility, preferences, particularly in developing countries, has received considerable attention in recent years because of its relationship with and important bearing on the complex family building processes.

Research in fertility, preferences, particularly in developing countries, has received considerable attention in recent years because of its relationship with and important bearing on the complex family building processes.

Pakistan emerged as an independent state on August 14,1947, nearly 45 years ago, when the British presided over the partition of the Indian subcontinent. The country came about as a demand for an independent, Muslim state.

Fertility behaviour in India, as anywhere else, is subject to socio-economic conditions as well as religious and cultural traditions.

Bangladesh, the eighth most populous nation in the world is also one of the poorest with a per capita income of less than US200. Although it enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, it is a country with unique geographic peculiarities, which distinguish it from the rest of the sub-continent.