Urban family and family planning in India

The present study emerged under peculiar circumstances. Dr. Kavoori requested me to review "Urban Family Situation in India after Independence" and prepare a report. Inspite of my other preoccupations. I could not refuse an old friend. At the time of accepting the proposal, I felt I could rapidly scan the literature and prepare a brief report embodying the summary and analysis of the material on the subject. I did not realize the immense responsibility implied in the undertaking. I started perusing the literature germane to the subject. In the process. I discovered the enormity of material. The diverse, manifold and continuously growing writing in the form of reports, papers, articles, pamphlets and books as well as the gigantic pile of mimeographed documents which unfolded before me. plunged me into a sea of studies. With the help of research assistants, I started examining the literature, took exhaustive notes, prepared charts and tables to co-relate various categories of data on different aspects of the subject. Drafts and redrafts on different aspects of the "Urban Family Situation" in the context of the larger social framework, had to be prepared to clarify my own position as well as to embody as objectively as possible the data generated and observations made by eminent re searchers. The entire exercise, though very arduous proved a very rewarding experience. It compelled me to evolve a proper framework, focus and vision to comprehend the subject.