1. religion and spirituality
2. hinduism

CHAPTER IV
SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS OF
THE SAMPLE RESPONDENTS
Socio-economic and cultural factors have a strong influence on the family
planning. Many studies reviewed earlier have established the powerful influence o f
the socioeconomic and cultural factors such as religion, place o f residence, income,
employment status and education, exercise on the family planning and fertility
behaviour. Before analyzing factors determining fertility behaviour it is essential to
understand the socio-economic and cultural backgrounds o f the sample respondents
o f Karaikal region.
Hence this chapter gives an analysis o f percentage distribution o f socioeconomic characteristics o f the sample respondents in Karaikal region o f the Union
Territory o f Pondichemy. Since the socio- economic backgrounds, o f the respondents
arc having strong bearing towards fertility and family planning, it is necessary to
study the wio-economic characteristics o f the sample respondents. This chapter
divided into three sections. Section-I deals with social, economic and demographic
characteristics o f the sample respondents. section-I1 deals with fertility preference
and family planning perspectives o f the respondents. Section-111 deals with quality o f
service provided in the hospitals.
SECTION -I
IV.l SOCIAL CHARACTERISTICS
The social characteristics include place o f the respondents, family type, caste,
religion. education, and marriage-age.
TABLE IV. 1
PERCENTAGE DI!3llUBUTION O F PLACE O F RESPONDENTS
place
Hindu
40
60
100
Rural
Urban
Total
Adopter
Christian
32
68
100
Muslim
28
72
100
Hindu
47
53
100
Non-Adopter
Christian M u d i m
62
72
28
38
100
100
There is strong evidence in literahlre that urbanization in general has a
significant. negative impact on fertility and positive influences on contraceptive
behaviour. The studies o f Alygam(1975).
Fisk(1968), Radhakrishna(l969),
Srivastaa(l974) and others have established this fact. There fore, the present study
has included the place o f residence as an important variable influencing family
planning. The above table-IV.1 shows that the adopter o f family planning methods in
each religion is higher in urban areas as compare with rural areas. In contrary, the
non-adopter is higher in rural areas than in urban areas. Here it is observed that
adopters o f Muslim community respondents are higher in urban when compare to
rural a m . This indicates that the place o f respondents is bearing some influence on
fertility and family planning anitude o f the sample respondents. The present study
has included this as an imporrant variable.
TABLE-IV2
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION O F F A M I L Y TYPE
Family
Nuclear
Joint
Total
Hindu
76
24
100
Adopter
Christian
76.8
23.2
100
I
1
1
1
Muslim
61.6
38.4
100
Hindu
76.9
23.1
100
Non-Adopter
Christian Muslim
83.1
70.8
16.9
29.2
100
100
Broadly speaking, there arc two types o f families in India, namely, nuclear
and joint families. The type o f family, its size and composition
are usually
considered important in the analysis o f demographic behaviour because the fertility
level o f a society is expected to be influenced by its dominant family structure. The
studies o f Nag Moni(1967) Gayal (1968). Karkal(l972) and Mahtab(1974) have
pointed out this fact. The distribution o f house hold based on family type shows that
irrespective o f religion, both adopter and non-adopter are higher in nuclear family
when compared to joint family. More specifically, both in adopter non-adopter the
Muslim community are higher in joint family when w m p d to other religion.
Here, it is observed that family type o f the respondents bears some influence over
fertility and family planning. The present study included this variable for analysis.
TABLE IV .3
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF CASTE OF THE RESPONDENTS
Caste o f the respondents reveals that irrespective o f religion both in adopter
and non- adopter of family planning methods. backward caste is higher when
comparing to other caste. In this table-lV.3, it shows that the adopter o f family
planning is higher in Christian respondents in backward caste followed by Muslim
community and Hindu and lower in SCIST. In contrast in non- adopter Muslim
community are higher in backward caste followed by Christian and Hindu and lower
in fonvard caste. The caste bearers have some influence in difference in adopter and
non-adopter o f family planning methods.
TABLE IV.4
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF RELIGION OF
THE RESPONDENTS
Non '
Religion Adopter
Hindu
Christian
Muslim
Total
75
10
I5
100
adopter
75
10
15
100
Religion is an important factor influencing the fertility and family planning
adoption. In particular religion has an influence on attitudes towards the type of
family, thc size of family, the number of childwn, the sex preference, and the type of
occupation. Religions also influence the parent's attitudes towards old age security
and the number of children. In the percentage distribution of adopter and non-adopter
of family planning methods. 75 percent are Hindu, 10 percent are Christian and I 5
percent are Muslim community respectively. The study has included it as an
important variable.
TABLE IV.5
PERCENTAGE DlSTRlBUTlON BY AGE AT MARRIAGE OF THE
RESPONDENTS
Age at marriage of women is a significant factor influencing the reproductive
profile. particularly in the less developed countries. Age at marriage influence the
reproductive span and shills thc fertility panern. The studies of Morrison (1957).
Fathima (1977) and Bhatia(1983) have established the positive association between
the age et marriage of women and her awareness and adoption of family planning.
The distribution of household based on age at marriage of the respondents shows that
both ado-
and non-adopter an higher in the marriage age p u p of less than 20
Yean. And lowst in the age group betwan 21-25 and afier that it is slightly
decreasing. But between this adopter of family planning methods. Muslim
wmmunity mpdcnts are higher in the age group of less than 20 y w r followed by
Hindus and Christians. On the other hand in non-adopter same like adopter Muslim
community respondents in this age group arc higher than Christian and Hindu.
Hence, in Muslim community marriage age is lower when compared to other
religions. This shows that marriage age beams have some influence over fertility o f
women. The present study has a considered as important determinant o f family
planning and fertility.
TABLE IV.6
PERCENTAGE DlSTRIBUTlON OF AGE AT MARRIAGE OF HUSBAND
Education is an important determinant o f contraceptive behaviour. More
importantly, education promotes the contraceptive behaviour. The rise in educational
level changes attitudes and encourage rational thinking. So here spouse's education
is considered as the important determinant o f fertility. The fertility decline caused by
education has been extensively documented in the literature. The study o f Sharma
(1987) and Miwa(1973) in India is a notable contribution in this area. The
distribution o f household baxd on respondents husband marriage age shows that the
adopter and non adopter o f family planning methods is lowest in the age group less
than 20 years and above 35 years and highest in the age group o f 21-30 years and
declined slightly after 31 years. Among these, Muslim community and Christian
-
respondents in the age group between 2 I 25 arc highest when compared to Hindu in
both adopter and in non-adopter.
TABLE- IV.7
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF RESPONDENTS BY EDUCATlON
secondary
College
Total
I
1
1
15.6
100
/
1
9.6
100
1
1
1
1
4.0
100
4.6
100
/
1
6.2
100
1
1
1.5
100
The distribution o f the household based on education o f the respondents
shows that the adopter and non- adopter o f Family planning methods is higher in high
school level irrespective o f religion. In adopter o f family planning methods Hindus
arc having up to college level education and are therefore higher when compared to
other religion. The Muslim community's arc higher in lower education when
compared to other religion. In both adopter and non-adopter o f family planning
methods Muslim community arc higher up to high school level. Tkis indicated that
education bears some influence over adoption not adopting family planning methods
across religious groups. Hence Muslim community education lower when compare to
other religion.
TABLE- IV.8
PERCENTAGE DISnUBUnON OF HUSBAND EDUCATION
secondary
College
j Total
1
/
1
29.2
100
1
1
21.6
100
1
1
12.8
100
1
1
13.1
100
I
1
]
I
4.6
100
1
1
10.8
100
The table imspective of three religions the adoption of family planning
methods among respondents husband having high school level education at higher
level. In conean non-adopter is higher in high school level education. Illiterate and
literate arc higher in Muslim community in adopter of family planning methods.
Where as in non-adopter it is negligible among three religions. More sptcifically in
college level, educations in Hindus are higher in adopting family planning methods
when compared to other religion. Hence the college level education is higher among
Hindu followed by Christian and Muslims.
IV.2 ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS
The economic characteristics include house type, family sire, electrification,
water facility, occupation monthly income of the respondents, respondent's husband,
and monthly expeIIditure of the family and total monthly income ofthe family.
TABLE IV.9
:
'
'
PERCENTAGE DlSTlUBUTlON OF RESPONDENTS HOUSE TYPE
HOUM
Type
Owned
Rented
Total
Hindu
78.8
2 1.2
100
Adopter
Christian
87.2
12.8
100
,
Muslim
77.6
22.4
100
Hindu
84.6
15.4
100
Non-Adopter
ChrMan Muslim
93.8
89.2
6.2
10.8
100
100
House typc of the respondents bears some influence over fertility and Fsmily
planning. In this table- IV.9 higher number of respondents of adopter and nonadopter of family planning methods arc having owned house irrespective of religion
in contrast with rented house. Christians and Muslims arc having rented house at
higher level than Hindu.
_
TABLE N.10
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF RESPONDENTS BY FAMILY SIZE
The size o f family and the type of family are very strongly related with each
other. The distribution o f household based on total number o f the family size shows
that in adopter o f family planning methods the total number o f family members is
higher in Muslim community, when compared to Christians followcd by Hindu
respondens. On Ihc other hand. in non-adopter same like adopter Muslim
community respondents have large family size. Christian and Hindu have negligible
family size.
TABLE- IV .I I
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIFICATION OF THE HOUSE
ElectrifiaHon
Electrified
Hindu
Adopter
Christian
89.2
91.2
1
1
Mudim
Hindu
96.8
95.4
Non-Adopter
Christian Mnslim
95.4
100
The distribution of household based on electrification o f the house shows that
in adopter and non-adopter o f family planning methods in each religion every h o w
is electrified. Only below 10 per cent o f the house are not eltctrified.
-
TABLE IV -12
PERCENTAGE DI!TlWBUTION O F WATER FACILITY O F THE HOUSE
Regarding the distribution of respondents based on water type, above 60 per
cent of the respondents have protected water than ground water facilities. In each
religion both in adopter and in non- adopter protected water is higher when compared
to ground water as Karaikal district is facilitated with corporation water, The ground
water facilities are higher among Muslim respondents house than other religion both
in adopters and no- adopters.
-
TABLE IV .13
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF OCCUPATION O F THE RESPONDENTS
Occupation
Farmer
I AgriculIuralLabour
Non-
Hindu
Adopter
Christian
0.4
6.4
6
4.8
0.8
Muslim
Hindu
0.8
0.8
0.8
Non-Adopter
Christian Muslim
3.1
6.2
1.5
O c c u p a t i o ~of spouses is one of the rocio-cconomic rtatus variables that
influence contmceptive behaviour and fertility. The U.N. study also indicates that
women currently working arc more likely to be practicing contraceptives than non
working women. The distribution of household based on occupation of the
respondents shows that both in adopter and non-adopter of family planning methods
highest numbers of respondents from t h r a religions are housewife. Among this
Muslim community respondents are higher than Hindu and Christian. The working
women are higher in Hindu and in Christian religion than in Muslim wmmunity
resppndmts. This occupation of respondents also bears infltlence over fertility of the
women. The present study included this as an important determinant of fertility
behaviour.
-
TABLE IV.14
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF OCCUPATION OF HUSBAND
Regarding distribution of household based on occupation of the respondent's
husband. the agricultural labourers are higher in three religions in both adopter and
nonadoprer of family planning methods, when compare to the other category.
Secondly service category is higher when w m p m to other category. In Hindu
service category are higher followed by Christian and Muslim community both in
adopter and non- adopter of family planning methods. Trade and commerce are
higher among Muslim respondents compared to other religion.
TABLE - IV.15
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF FAMLY MONTHLY INCOME
A good number o f studies have found that the adoption o f contraceptive
techniques is associated with higher income o f couples. The studies o f Kump(1981)
and MukarjH 1962) have also repons that higher income groups are known to be
favorable for family planning adoption and no-adoption. The distribution of
household based on family monthly income shows that in adopter and non-adopter of
family planning methods higher per cent of the respondents family monthly income
is less than Rs.3000,when comparing to other income group level. Among this
Christian religion respondents are receiving higher income up to Rs.7500 per month.
In the pmcnt study family monthly income is considered as an determinant o f
fertility.
-
TABLE IV .16
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF FAMILY MONTHLY EXPENDITURE
The distribution o f household based on family monthly expenditure o f the
respondents shows Lhat both in adopter and non-adopter o f family planning methods
highen number o f respondents from thra religions monthly expenditure is below
Rs.3000. Among this Christian religion respondents are higher. when compare to
olher religion. Again it is decreasing up to Rs. 7500. In non- adopter the family
monthly ucpnditurc is higher for Muslim community up to Rs.7500, but in adopter
it is higher up
to Rs.3500 in Hindu respondents. The percentage distribution of the
nspondent's monthly income md monthly expendituresare one and the same.
-
TABLE IV. 17
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF RESPONDENTS MONTHLY INCOME
Higher per cent o f respondent are fmm house wife category which is one o f
the main reasons for not earning anything among adopter and non adopter o f family
planning method. The respondents who are earning in the income group between
Rs.1500- Rs.3000 are Hindus followed by Christian respondents. This is because
Muslim community respondents are not willing to work when comparing them to
other religion.
-
TABLE IV .I8
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF HUSBAND MONTHLY INCOME
The respondent's husband monthly income shows that the higher number o f
respondents husband fiom adopter o f family planning methods and non-adopter o f
family planning methods have Rs.1500-Rs.3000 as monthly income. A h r that it is
decreasing up to Rs7500. Christian religion respondents husband arc receiving higher
income ktween Rs.1500-Rs.3000 and Hindu mpondent's husbands up to Rs7500 as
a maximum income. Most o f the Muslim community mpondent's husbands are
businessman when compared to other religion. This is one o f the reasons why
Muslim community respondents husband receive higher monthly income in nonadopter, which is one of the reason for not adopting family planning methods.
IV.3 DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS
The demographic characteristics include eligible couples, present age o f the
respondents number o f living children, female children. male children, age o f last
child, number o f pregnancies, out come o f pregnancies.
TABLE IV.19
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF ELIGIBLE COUPLES
Distribution o f household based on eligible wuples o f the respondents
reveals that both in adopter and non-adopter o f family planning methods, the
respondents from Muslim community has highest eligible wuples in r k i r family
when compare to Christian and Hindu respondents. The maximum number o f
eligible couples is found in Muslim community and Chrinian religion in adopter o f
family planning methods.
TABLE IV.20
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF PRESENT AGE OF
THE RESPONDENTS
Present age o f the respondents shows that in adopter o f family planning
methods the respondents in three religions Hindu. Christian and Muslim wmmunity
is highest in present age group between 31-35. But in non-adopter o f family planning
it is highest in the age group between 26-30 when compare to other age group. Up to
4 1 ages the respondents arc found in adopter o f family planning methods. In Muslim
community in non-adopter thee is a respondent in the age group up to 41. The
present age is one o f the important variables, which bears some influence over
fertility and family planning adoption.
TABLE- IV .21
PERCENTAGE DlSTlUBUTlON OF PRESENT AGE OF HUSBAND
The respondent's husband present age shows that higher number o f the
respondents husband present age in adopter o f family planning methods are betwan
36-40. Among this Hindus ax higher than Christian and Muslim community. Thm
is no respondent's husband between the age group o f 20-35.
On the other hand in
non-adopter o f family planning methods most o f the respondent's husbands arc in the
age group between 31-35. But after that it is decreasing slightly.
TABLE IV .22
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF NUMBER OF LIVING CHLDREN
The number o f living children is an imponant demographic variables
influencing the adoption and non-adoption o f family planning method. In general,
couples who have achieved the desired number o f children accept family planning
easily and more willingly than those who get to achieve the desired number o f
children. The percentage distribution o f the total number o f living children reveals
that, in adopter and in non-adopter the total number o f living children is low up to
one child and highest up to 2 and 3 children after that it is decreasing. But in case o f
Muslim community and in Christian religion the number o f living children is
increasing up to 5 and 6 in adopter o f family planning. But in case o f non-adopter,
there is no respondents having a k r 5 number o f living children which also one o f
the reason for not adopting family planning methods.
TABLE IV.23
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF NUMBER OF MALE CHUD
The results o f distribution of household based on total number of male
children shows that the number of male child in adopter and in non-adopter o f family
planning methods is higher in Hindu and Muslim community. The maximum number
of male child up to 5 is in Muslim community.
TABLE- I V .24
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF NUMBER OF FEMALE CHILD
The percentage distribution o f number of female child shows that higher
numbers of respondents are having at least one female child both in adopters and
non-adopters of family planning methods.
T A B L E IV .25
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF AGE OF LAST CHILD
The age of last child of the respondents reveals that in adopter of family
planning methods arc the higher number o f the respondents age o f last child is up to
3 years. And it is to be noted that up to ten years there is an age o f last child in
adopter. But in case of non-adopter of family planning there is no child up to ten
years. And highest respondent last age of child is 2 years and I year after that it is
decreasing. But in Muslim community and in Hindu religion having children up to 8
years. The respondents arc not adopting family planning when the age o f last child is
up to 9 and 8 both in Hindu and in Muslim.
TABLE IV.26
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL NUMBER OF PREGNANCIES
Number of
rpregnanelea
1
I
,
8
Total
1
Ado ter
H111du
I Chri:~an I
1 0 . 4 1
1
1
-. .
-
100
1
/
2 . 4 1
100
1
1
Muslim
4
1 .
100
/
1
6
/
Hindu
-
1 100
Non-Ado ter
1 C h r i s 2 Muslim
I
1
i
-
I
-
-
j
1
100
100
-
The total number o f pregnancies during all years o f marriage o f the
respondents in the above table shows that in adopter o f family planning methods the
total number o f pregnancies is higher in Muslim community and in Hindu followed
by Christian respectively. But in case o f non-adopter o f family planning methods it
is higher in Hindus than in Christian and Muslim community.
TABLE IV.27
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF OUTCOME OF PREGNANCIES
(ABORTION)
The above table- 1V.27 shows that the total number o f abortion including
stimulated and induced abornon is higher in Hindu followed by Muslim community
and Christian both in adopter and non-adopter o f family planning methods
respectively.
/
The average number o f abortion is higher among Muslim both in adopters and nonadopters. This shows pregnancies wastage is higher among Muslim which is having
bearing over fertility due to ill health o f the mother which is shown in field
investigation.
TABLE IV.28
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OUTCOME OF PREGNANCIES
(STILL BIRTH)
1
I
1
Still
Birth
0
I
1
2
3
Total
1
Adopter
1
Hindu
96
2.4
1.2
0.4
100
I Christian I
1 91.2 /
6.4
2.4
100
Muslim
90.4
8.8
/
1
0.8
100
Hindu
100
100
Non-Adopter
/ Christian / Muslim
/ 93.8 1 100
4.6
1.5
100
100
Out o f total number o f pregnancies stillbirth shows higher in case o f Hindu
religion o f the respondents followed by Christian and in Muslim community o f the
respondents. On the other hand, in case o f non-adopter it i s higher in Christian
religion than in other religion. But 90 per cent o f the respondents have no stillbirth.
The average stillbirth for Hindu and Christian are higher.
TABLE IV .29
PERCENTAGE DlSTRlBUTlON OF OUTCOME OF PREGNANCIES
Live birth is one o f the important variables, which is used for measurement of
the fertility rate o f the women. Number o f live birth out o f total o f pregnancies
shows that in adopter o f family planning methods live birth is higher in Christian
followed by Muslim when compared to Hindus. Whereas in non-adopter it is higher
in Hindus when compared to Christians and Muslims. But up to four children there is
live birth in both adopter and in non-adopter o f family planning methods. And higher
number o f live birth is found in adopter o f family planning up six in contrast with
non-adopter. The average live birth for Hindus is higher in adopters where as lower
in non-adopters. Here live birth is the children, which are born in good condition
with out cesarean.
IV.4 FERTILITY PREFERENCE AND FAMILY PLANNING
PERSPECTIVES
The following information is related to fertility preference and family
planning perspectives. They are. time o f discussion, opinion about family planning
methods. person attended delivery. ever used any methods to delay or avoid
pregnancies reason for adopting and not adopting family planning methods, sex
preference o f the children, reason for educating son and girl, incentives received,
ideal number o f children. persuasion to use temporary methods, number o f living
children at the time o f started using family planning methods. reason for adopting
temporary and permanent methods. place of sterilization, ever got pregnant while
using family planning methods, complaint about using o f family planning methods
Body condition aAer adopting family planning methods age at permanent and
temporary methods visiting about anganwadis age differentials between age at
marriage and permanent methods, distance from hospitals to house.
IV.4.1 FERTILITY PREFERNCE
The fertility preference is understood through following opinion o f the
respondents.
TABLE I V30
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION O F DISCUSSION ABOUT NUMBER
CHILDREN
Discussion
Non-Adopter
Adopter
I
Hindu Christian 1 Muslim
Hindu Christian Muslim
84
87.7
80.4
(
67.7
81.5
80.8
;yes
19.6
19.2
16
12.3
I No
1 32.3
18.5
100
[ Total
100
100
100
100
1 I00
1
The results o f distribution household based on the discussion about the
number o f children, they should have with their husband. shows that in the adopter of
family planning methods the highest number o f respondents are discussing with their
husband about the number of children they should have. But among these three
religions Christian percentage is higher when compare to Hindu and Muslim
community. But in case o f non-adopter o f family planning methods highest number
of respondents discussing and among these three religions Hindu religion has higher
compared to Christian and Muslim community. This shows Muslim are higher
conservative towards fertility. The Muslim respondent does not like to discuss with
their husband about the number o f children they should have in future
TABLE- IV31
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION O F T I M E OF DISCUSSION ABOUT
CHILDREN
The distribution o f household based on time o f discussion about the children
they should have reveals that the highest number o f respondents in adopter and in
non-adow in each religion taking decision just after second child. In adopter of
family planning methods the respondents from Hindu and Christian religion is taking
decision before 3 child but Muslim community respondents taking decision just a h
third child. But in non-adopter of family planning the respondents discussing just
after the marriage and Christian and Muslim community a n discussing after the first
and second child.
TABLE IV 3 2
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF OPINION ABOUT FOLLOWING OF
FAMILY PLANNING METHODS
Family
~hnninn
method;
Yes
No
Total
Hindu
10
90
100
Non-Adopter
1 Christian 1 Muslim
13.8
86.2
100
16.9
83.1
100
Distribution of household based on whether the respondents followed the
family planning methods reveals that the highest respondents not following the
family planning methods. The respondent who says yes is followed safety methods.
The percentage is highest in the Hindu nligion than Christian respondents in
accepting family planning methods as temporary methods in non-adopter. Muslim
community is not interested to go for temporary methods among this selected
sample.
TABLE IV33
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF PERSON ATTENDED CHILD BIRTH
The household based on the distribution respondents regarding who attended
the delivery shows that doctors in the government hospital attend highest number o f
respondent's child birth delivery both for adopter and non-adopter. In non-adopter
also doctors in general hospital attend the highest number o f delivery. The nurse and
health visitors attending child delivery is also presented in kariakal region.
TABLE IV.34
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF SEX-PREFERENCE OF
THE CHILDREN
1
Scx
Preference
I
One boy
1
Hindu
76.8
I
Adopter
Christian
/
72
I
1
1
Muslim
36
Non-Adopter
I Hindu Christian / Muslim
1 50.8 1 43.1 1 29.2
Two boy
Two girls
and one bo
21.6
32
I
od desire
Total
100
100
100
24.6
100
100
100
The sex preference o f the children shows that in adopter o f family planning
methods in Hindu religion and in Christian religion higher percentage o f respondents
preference is one boy and one girl where as in Muslim community two girls and alxl
says it depends on gods desire. This shows that Muslim community women have
more religious faith than other religion. In non-adopter most o f the Hindu religion
and Christian religion, the respondent's preferences is one boy and one girl. In
Muslim community, the respondent's preference is two girls and depends on god
desire. T h e shows Muslim communities prefer female child compare to Hindu
religion preferring male child.
TABLE IV 3 5
PERCENTAGE DIS'ITUBUTION O F REASON FOR EDUCATUiG SON
The imponant m o n for educating son in both adopter and non-adopter of
family planning is mainly for the purpose of employment benefits. This is higher in
Hindu followed by Christian. but the Muslim community respondents educating their
son for earning income through some other way likes business. Other reason is
negligible in all religion.
TABLE W.36
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION O F REASON FOR EDUCATING GIRL CHILD
I
Reawn
/ Able to read and
write
They can also work
Develop
confidence
, Boys and girls are
' equal
Marriageongood
Non-Adopter
Adopter
Hindu
36.4
I Cbristlan I Muslim
/ 37.6 1 72.8
35.2
5.6
I
1
4.8
9.2
8.8
0.8
26.4
7.2
I
1
4.0
12.8
/
I
/
0.8
14.4
I
1
Hindu
30.8
1 Christian 1
/ 16.9 1
Mdim
27.7
35.4
4.6
7.7
18.5
9.2
4.6
4.6
5.4
I
1
7.7
15.4
I
1
1.5
16.9
In the above table-IV.36 the nsson for educating female child is given. This
shows that in adopter and non-adopter of family planning methods, in Hindu and in
Christian the respondents arc educating their female children because of to read and
write .and also to go for employment purpose. But in Muslim community the
respondents educating their female children for marry in good status and to read and
write purpose only. Sending female child for job is higher in Hindu compare to the
Christian and Muslim community both in adopter and in non-adopter of family
planning methods.
TABLE I V 3 7
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF SON PREFERENCE FOR
FUNERAL PURPOSE
Son
Preference
Yes
No
Total
Hindu
88.8
11.2
100
Adopter
Christian
16.8
83.2
100
Muslim
7.2
92.8
100
Hlndu
96.15
3.84
100
Non-Adopter
Christimn Muslim
64.61
41.53
35.38
58.46
100
I00
The above table shows that son preference is higher among Hindus both in
adopter and in non-adopter of family planning methods.
TABLE- i V 3 8
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBLTION OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF OPINION
ABOLT FAMILY PLANNING AND FERTILITY PREFERENCE
The different opinion o f women towards family planning methods among
adopter and non-adopter are presented in table 4.38. The love and care o f children in
small family shows that the Hindu respondents agreeing towards this opinion we
lower when compared to Christian and Muslim communities. Where as agreeing
towards this opinion by Hindu is lower in non-adopter o f family planning methods
than other religion.
Regarding opinion two having greater number o f sons means higher social
status higher number o f respondents from adopter and non-adopter o f family
planning a p i n g about this opinion is Hindu followed by Christian and Muslim
community. This shows son preference is higher between Hindu and Christian.
Based on the whether all newly married couples are given information about
birth control techniques. highest number of respondents from Hindu agrees towards
this opinion than Christian and Muslim community. The Muslim community
respondents d i s n p i n g towards this opinion is higher both in adopter and nonadopter o f family planning. This shows that Muslim community not interested in
adopting family planning method.
Regarding introducing sex education in schools and colleges in both adopter
and non-adopter o f family planning methods, the highest number o f respondents
from Hindu religion agreeing towards this opinion is higher than Christian and
Muslim community. Muslim community respondents disagree about this opinion is
higher than Hindu and Christian respondents.
On the basis o f opinion five, having fewer children is good for mother health,
the respondents from Hindu religion a p i n g is at higher percent when compamd to
the Christian and Muslim community in both adopter and non-adopter. The Muslim
community disagree towards this opinions seems to be higher because they will
prefer higher number o f children than lesser number o f children. Regarding family
size, it is desirable to limit the sire o f the family so that all children will get adequate
care in family. The highest number o f respondents from Hindu religion agreeing
towards this opinion is higher than Christian and Muslim community in adopter and
non-adopter.
The distribution o f household based on the opinion o f should all mothers
providing information on birth control techniques to their grown up daughters. It
shows that higher numbcr o f respondents from Hindu religion a p i n g towards this
opinion is higher than Christian and Muslim community in both adopter and nonadopter. In Muslim community the respondents an not willing to provide
information about birth control techniquesto their grown up daughters.
The opinion o f regardless o f sex o f the children should two children be
considered enough, in adopter o f family planning methods higher number o f Hindu
religion respondents a p i n g towards this opinion is higher when compared to the
Christian and Muslim community. But in non-adopter Hindu respondents an higher
than Muslim community.
The opinion about practice o f family planning is against their religion, the
percentage shows that the respondents fmm Hindu are higher in disagree towards
this opinions than Christian and Muslim community both in adopter and non-adopter.
The Muslim community agrees towards this opinion seems to be higher because
according to Muslim community, practice o f family planning is against their religion.
In same way in Christian alw the practice of family planning is againn their religion.
The opinion about larger families' means better security in old age, highest
number o f Muslim community respondents from adopters agrees about this opinion
seems to be higher than Hindu and Christian. But in the urx o f non-adopter, Hindu
respondents are higher than Christian and Muslim community. Generally the opinion
of the respondents about this opinion is that in now days the larger families means
better security is not accepted one because o f nuclear families has increased when
compared to the joint families and most o f the respondents are giving less number
birth to child. Over all the Hindu respondents attitude is positive when compare to
other religion.
TABLE - N 3 9
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF IDEAL NUMBER OF CHILDREN FOR
AN AVERAGE FAMILY
The distribution o f household based on opinion about consideration o f economic
condition what number o f children will be an ideal number for an average family
reveals that in adopter, higher number o f the respondents says two children will be
considered. Out o f this the percentage, Christian respondents is higher than compare
to the other religion. Muslim community respondents say four children is considered
as ideal number, where as Hindu says only one child should be considered to be
ideal. In case o f non-adopter, higher number of respondents says two children are
considered as ideal. In non-adopter, four children in Muslim community, two
children in Hindu and one child in Christian as considered as ideal number o f
children's
TABLE- IV.40
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF PERSUASION TO USE THE
TEMPORARY METHODS
I h e above table reveals that who persuaded to use the temporary family
planning methods o f the respondents.
Respondents who are using temporary
methods arc taking decisions by themselves than through other media or person. In
this case it is higher in Christian and in Muslim community than Hindu. Secondly,
both husband and wife are taking decision about using o f temporary methods are
higher when compared to through other way o f persuasion. Muslim and Christian
respondents taking decision by self because o f restriction from husband and relatives.
IV.4.2 FAMILY PLANNING PERSPECITVES
The following information gives us about family planning perspectivesofthe
respondents.
TABLE IV.41
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF HAVE EVER USED ANY METHODS
TO DELAY OR AVOID THE PREGNANCY
Metbods
Adopter
1
Non-Adopter
Hindn I Cbristian I Mu8lim 1 Hindu 1 Christian I Muslim
to delay
or avoid
40.8 1
31.2
10
13.8
15.4
20.8
Y es
I
'NO
Total
59.2
100
1
1
68.8
100
90
100
79.2
100
86.2
100
84.6
100
The respondents following about temporary family planning methods reveals
that in adopter o f Hindu respondents going for temporary methods is higher than
Christian and Muslim. Hence. Muslim community are not preferring temporary
methods at higher level when compare to other religion. In non-adopter the
respondents from Muslim community do not prefer temporary methods compare to
other religion. Hence the adoption of temporary method is lower in Muslim.
TABLE- IV .42
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF REASON FOR ADOPTING FAMILY
PLANNING METHODS
Adopter
Satisfied with existing child
Economic Consideration
Family living standard
Consideration o f welfare o f the child
Considerationo f welfare o f the mother
1
1
8.8
10.4
/
9.6
1
100
I
Working condition o f parents
Total
1
1,
1
/
2.4
12
1
1
1
4
32.8
1
5.6
100
1
100
Hindus and Christian are adopting at higher level because o f economic
condition. Here, the percentage of Muslim adopting family planning method due to
consideration o f the welfare and health condition o f mothers shows 32.8 percent
This indicates that because o f ill health o f the mother Muslim respondent are unable
to undergo adoption o f family planning method (Field investigation, show in
4.358).
TABLE IV.43
PERCENTAGE DlSTRlBCTlON OF REASON FOR NOT ADOPTING
FAMILY PLANNING METHODS
The reason for not adopting family planning methods is the mother health
condition not able to accept the adoption o f family planning methods. That is the
weakness o f mother body condition. This is found higher among Hindu religion than
in Christian followed by Muslim community respectively. The other main reason for
not adopting family planning methods between Christian and Muslim is because o f
religious rtason and restriction from relatives.
TABLE 1V.44
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF INDIVIDUAL BASED ON METHODS
OF CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICE USED BY THE SPOUSES
The temporary method adoption is higher between Hindu and Christian than
in Muslim respondents. Among different methods o f temporary methods I.U.D.
(Intra Uterine Device) is the highly common methods using at higher level
Hindus respondentscornpan to other religious respondents.
by the
TABLE- IV.45
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF INCENTIVES RECEIVED
Adopter
Incentives
/
Y es
No
Total
Hindu
I
Christian
79.2
20.8
100
86.4
13.6
100
I
Muslim
community
80.8
19.2
100
This table shows that whether the respondents in adopter of family planning
methods w i v e d incentives are not. Above 75 per cent of the respondents says
received incentives by in the kind of fewer amounts of money and healthy tonics.
Among this Christians are higher when compare to Muslim community and Hindu.
TABLE- IV.46
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF OPINION ABOUT INCENTTVES
Adooter
Muslim
Less
Suficicnt
No answer
Total
71.6
0.4
100
68.8
17.6
3.2
100
2.4
100
In this table-IV.46 the respondent's opinion about incentives received is
given. This shows that higher number of respondents says that the incentive, which is
provided by the government, is not sufficient and it is less for taking care of health
condition of mother. But this is found higher among Hindu compare to Christian and
in Muslim community.
TABLE- IV.47
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF INCENTIVES NOT GIVEN STILL
THEY UNDERGONE STERnISATION
Hindu
Total
Adopter
Christian
100
Muslim
100
100
The above table-IV.47 reveals that suppose when incentives were not given,
whether the respondents have undergone sterilization.It shows that higher number of
respondents says that if incentives are not given, we will go for sterilization. Only
less number of respondents says no because of they are from socially and
economically backward.
TABLE- IV .48
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF SATISFACTION
ABOUT THE USING OF FAMILY PLANNING METHODS
Opinion
Total
Adopter
Hindu
CbhIian
Mudim
100
100
100
Opinion about satisfaction about using of family planning methods revcnls
the! higher number of respondents satisfied about using of the family planning
methods. Among the religious groups, Christian's percentages are higher compare to
Hindus and Muslim community.
TABLE IV -49
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF REASON FOR
PREFERRING TEMPORARY METHODS
The preference o f temporary methods instead o f permanent methods by the
respondents is because o f want to have additional child and for giving space between
existing numbers o f children. Second main reason for adopting temporary method is
sterilization may cause death. Regarding Muslim communities, they are not adopting
any temporary methods because o f want o f additional child.
TABLE IV.50
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF REASON FOR ADOPTING
PERMANENT METHODS
The diotribution o f household based on the reason for adopting permanent
methods instead o f temporary methods reveals that higher number o f respondents
gone for permanent methods because o f satisfied with existing number o f child
imspective o f religion.
Muslim community is compulsorily asked to adopt
p e r m m t methods after second child because o f cesarean.
TABLE IV .51
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF PLACE OF
STERILISATlON PERFORMED
The percentage distribution o f household based on the place where the
sterilization performed shows that the higher number o f respondents undergoing
operation in general hospital imspective of religion. The respondents undergoing
operation in general hospitals are higher than those undergoing operation in private
hospitals.
TABLE IV.52
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF EVER GOT PREGNANT WHILE
USING THE FAMILY PLANNING METHODS
Opinion
No
Total
90.8
100
94.4
I00
94.4
100
The distribution o f household based on the failure while using the family
planning methods by the respondents shows that in each religion higher number o f
respondents is not gming pregnant while using family planning methods. Thc
nspondmc who is getting pregnant is befause o f Lap-pic
method.
TABLE IV.53
DISTRlBUnON OF TYPE OF METHOD EVER GOT PREGNANT
WHILE USING
There is no much failure in adopting family planning methods. In temporary
methods higher percent of respondents faced failures while adopting family planning
methods. Among the temporaly method pills is one of the common methods getting
failure.
TABLE 1V.54
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF COMPLAWT ABOUT USING OF
FAMILY PLANNING METHODS
Higher number of respondents is having pain while adopting family planning
methods irrespective of religion, ' h e complaints like cause of white discharge and
affect mental health arc higher among Muslims and Christian.
TABLE- IVdS
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF BODY CONDITION OF
RESPONDENTS COMPARISON TO PRE OPERATION HEALTH
Ado ter
Oplnlon
Wei ht increased
Wei t decreased
Total
20.4
100
23.2
100
24.8
100
The above table-IV.55 shows percentage distribution of household based on
body condition of respondents in comparison to the pre-operation health. In each
religion there is same condition of body condition in comparison to prc operation
condition. Further weight decreased is higher in each religion when compare with
weight increased. Hence there are changes occurring in body condition because of
adopting family planning methods. This is also one o f the reasons for adopting and
not adopting family planning methods.
TABLE- W .56
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF AGE A T THE TIME OF STARTED
USING THE PERMANENT METHODS
Age at the time of staned using the permanent methods of family planning
methods shows that higher number of respondents going for permanent methods in
the age group o f 26-30 in each religion. Lower in the age group between less than
20-25 and above 40. But in Muslim community the adoption is higher up to 36-40
Years compartd to other religion.
TABLE IV .57
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF AGE AT THE TIME OF STARTED
USING TEMPoRARY METHODS
The distribution of household based on age at the time of using temporary
methods shows that in each religion the adoption of temporary methods are higher in
the age group of 21-25. The adoption of temporary methods is higher among Hindu
respondents compan to Christian and Muslim community. But in each religion the
adoption of temporary methods is up to the age of 30 years.
TABLE IV.58
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AGE
MARRIAGE AGE AND AGE OF ADOPTION OF PERMANENT METHODS
The household based on age differentials between age at adoption of
Permanent methods and marriage age shows that in Hindus the ~ S p ~ I h i e n arc
ts
adopting permanent mcthods after the marriage of three to four yean. The Christian
and Hindus adopting permanent methods after the marriage of three to four years. In
case of Muslim community respondents adopting permanent methods a h marriage
of five to six y e m . It shows that Muslim community are adopting family planning
methods after five to six years is higher compare to Hindu and Christian.
TABLE IV.59
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF ADOPTION OF TEMPORARY
METHODS NUMBER OF YEARS AFIZR MARRIAGE
7
10
Total
1.2
2
100
I
I
1
,
0.8
0.8
100
1
1
1
-
-
100
The adoption of temporary methods is higher among Hindu followed by
Christian and Muslim community. The age differentials benueen age at adoption of
temporary method and marriage age are higher for Hindu and Christian than Muslim.
TABLE N .60
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF DISTANCE FROM HOUSE TO THE
HOSPITAL
The distance from the hospital to the house shows that higher number of
respondent's distance hom hospital to house is ranging from I to 3 kilometers
followed by 4 to 7 kilometers irrespective of religion.
TABLE- IV.61
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF RESPONDENTS VISITING
ANG ANWADIS
Anganwadu
No
Total
Hindu
Ado ter
Christian
Muslim
Hindu
75.2
100
76
100
88
100
37.69
I00
Non-Ado ter
Christian
Muslim
61.53
100
69.23
100
In adopters higher number of respondents is not visiting anganwadis. In
contrast in non-adopters Hindus are higher in visiting anganwadis.
TABLE IV .62
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF CHILDREN VISITING ANGANWADIS
/
1
Anganwadls
Yes
No
Total
Hindu
Adopter
Christian
42.8
57.2
100
27.2
72.8
100
Muslim
comrnnnily
15.2
84.8
100
Hindu
53.84
46.15
100
Non-Adopter
Christian
Muslim
cvmmunity
36.92
58.45
63.07
41.53
100
100
The Hindus respondent's child visiting anganwadis is seems to be higher in
adopter compared to other religion. In the case of non-adopters Christian respondents
children arc visiting anganwadis at higher level when compared to other religion.
Both in adopter and in non-adopter, Muslim community children arc not visiting
anganwadis at higher level as compand to other religion.
TABLE- IV .63
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF HOUSE HOLD BASED ON VISITING
ABOUT FAMILY PLANNING CLINICS
Adopter
Total
13.6
100
100
100
It shows that above 80 percent o f the respondents are visiting family
planning clinics.
I n Hindus it is 86.4 percent in Christian 92.8 pcrcent and in
Muslim community 94.4 percent visiting family planning clinics personally.
Remaining respondents are visiting family planning staffs. Christian visiting family
planning clinics are seems to be at higher level followed by Hindu ad Muslim
community.
IV.5 QUALITY OF SERVICE IN THE HOSPITALS
The adoption of family planning methods and the success o f the various
schemes depend on the quality of service provided in the hospitals.
TABLE- I V -64
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF AVAILABILITY BUILDINGS
Opinion
Adopter
Non-Adopter
Hindu Christian Muslim
Hindu Christian Muslim
Adequate
53.6
48
28.5
43.2
41.5
44.6
Inadequate
46.4
56.8
52
71.5
55.4
58.5
Total
100
100
100
100
100
100
Regarding availability of buildings both in adopter and non-adopter, higher
number of respondents saying there is adequate buildings in the hospital where they
have visited, but the respondents who says inadequate are higher in the rural areas
than urban areas, This shows that rural areas are not having building facilities in
hospitals. Among the respondents the response is higher from the Hindu religion than
Christian and in Muslim community.
T A B L E IV.65
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF AVAILABILITY MEDICINE
According to adopters there is adequate medicine provided in the hospital.
But in case of non-adopter of family planning methods the respondents says that
there is inadequate in providing medicine in hospital. Among the adopter, the
response from the Hindu is higher than Muslim and Christian's community. In nonadopter the response from Hindu is higher than Christians and Muslim wmmunity.
TABLE IV .66
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF AVAILABILITY
PHARMACEUTICAL STAFF
Opinion
Adequate
Inadequate
Total
Hindu
83.2
16.8
100
Adopter
Christian
68
32
I00
Muslim
72
28
100
Hindu
43.8
56.2
100
Non-Adopter
Christian Mualim
63.1
40
36.9
60
100
100
Regarding availability of pharmaceutical staff in adopter, according to higher
number Hindu respondents there is adequate pharmaceutical staff in hospital than by
the Muslim community and Christian. In non-adopter of family planning methods
respondents saying inadequate is higher than saying adequate. Among the
respondents of non-adopter Hindus are higher in case of saying inadequate than
Christians and Muslim community.
TABLE IV.67
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF AVAILABILITY OF
CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICE
Regarding availability of contraceptive device, both adopter and non-adopter
say adequate at higher level than the respondents saying inadequate. The Hindu
religion is higher in case of saying adequate contraceptive device is pmviding in the
hospitals. Hence both in rum! and in u
pmviding in the hospital with adequate need.
h arcas the conbaceptive device is
TABLE N.68
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF AVAILABILITY OF FAMILY
PLANNING CENTRE
Regarding availability of family planning center the respondents from adopter
and non- adopter of family planning methods there is adequate family planning
clinics in Karaikal. Among this the respondents from Hindu is higher than Muslim
community followed by Christian respondents. Hence the family planning clinics,
which are adequate at higher level, are responsible for adoption of family planning
methods among all religion.
TABLE- IV .69
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF AVAILABILITY OF FAMILY
WELFARE SCHEME
Opinion
Hindu
Adequate 75.2
Inadequate 24.8
100
Total
Adopter
Christian Muslim
61.6
51.2
48.8
38.4
100
100
Hindu
53.8
46.2
100
Non-Adopter
Christian Mnslim
38.5
44.6
55.4
61.5
100
100
Regarding availability of family welfare scheme the respondents from
adopter, saying adequate is higher than the respondents says inadequate. Among this
the respondentsmo'
Hindu is higher than Muslim community and Christian. In the
case of non-adopter, the Hindu respondents saying adequate is higher than the
respondents from Christian and Muslim community saying inadequate.
T A B L E IV .70
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION O F AVAILABILITY O F FAMILY
PLANNING MOTIVATORS
Opinion
Adequate
Inadequate
Total
Hindu
65.2
34.8
100
Adopter
Chrirtlan
77.6
22.4
100
Muslim
61.6
38.4
100
Hindu
56.9
43
100
Non-Adopter
Christian Muslim
41.5
53.8
58.5
46.2
100
100
In case of availability of family planning motivators the respondents from
both adopter and non-adopters of family planning methods reporting that there are
adequate family planning motivators in karaikal region. Both in rural and in urban
areas there is adequate family planning motivators in the hospitals. Hence Hindus are
at higher level reporting about availability of family planning motivators followed by
Christian respondents and Muslim community respondents.
TABLE- IV.71
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION O F AVAILABILITY O F HOSPITAL
SERVICES REGARDING DOCTORS
Opinlon
Adequate
Inadequate
Total
Hindu
59.6
40.4
100
Adopter
Christian
68
32
100
M ~ l i m Hindu
72
63.1
28
37
100
100
Non-Adopter
Christian Muslim
43.1
63.1
36.9
56.9
IW
I00
Regarding availability of doctors in the hospital there is adequate doctors in
the hospitals. Among this the respondents fmm Hindu religion is at higher level
followed by Muslim community and Christian respondents. On the other hand in the
case of non-adopter, the Hindu respondents reporting adequate is higher than the
respondents Fmm Christian and Muslim community saying inadequate. But generally
there are inadequate doctors in the hospitals of Karaikal districts.
TABLE- IV.72
PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF AVAILABILITY OF
EXTENSION OF EDUCATION
Oplnion
Adequate
Inadequate
Total
Hindu
71.2
28.8
1W
Adopter
Christian
69.6
30.4
100
Muslim
72
28
100
Hindu
60
40
100
Non-Adopter
Christian Muslim
58.5
58.5
41.5
41.5
100
100
About availability of extension of education regarding family planning, the
respondents from both adopter and non-adopter of family planning methods saying
adequate is higher than the respondents saying inadequate. Between this the
respondents from Hindu religion is higher than Christian followed by Muslim
community.
V.6 CONCLUSION
An anempt is made in this chapter IV to understand the important socioeconomic characteristics of the sample respondents. The socio economic and
demographic characteristics of respondents have been examined with respect to
religion, residential status, type of family, family expenditure, family income,
income of male and female, caste, education of male and female, present age of male
and female, marriage age of male and female, occupation of male and female, total
number of living children, family s k place of the respondents.
The percentage of adopter family planning methods, in urban areas is higher
compared to rural anas irrespective of religion. Muslim community adopter is higher
in urban areas and lower in rural areas. Hence place of residence has bearing on
fertility of women. The percentage of adopter and non-adopter are higher in
backward caste as compand to forward caste. In case of type of family, the adopter
and non- adopter are higher in nuclear families irrespective of religion. But Muslim
community adopter and non-adopter are slightly higher in joint families. l l ~ .
percentage of adopters and non-adopter's of family planning methods were higher in
the marriage age gmup of less below 20 years and lower in the age group of 26-30
irrespective of religion. The average age at marriage for Hindus is comparatively
higher. The percentage o f adopters and non-adopters are higher in school level
educatipn wmparatively lower in college level education. Christians and Muslim
community in adopters and non-adopters are higher in literate and school level
education c o m p a d to college level education. Hence
The economic factors show profound influence over fertility o f the women.
The higher proportion o f adopters and non-adopters has one house irrespective o f
religion. But little higher proportion o f Muslim community non-adopters and
Christian's adopters has owned houses, The average family size for Muslim
community adopters is high as compared to Christian and Hindu. In case o f nonadopters it is higher for Christian followed by Muslim community and Hindus. Both
adopters and non-adopters account for high proportion in non-working category
irrespective o f religion. As well known the proportion o f employed Muslim
community women is relatively low the workingwomen are higher in Hindu and in
Christians both in adopter and non-adopter o f family planning methods. The Muslim
community is higher in house wife category. The average monthly income for Hindu
is higher as compared to Christian and Muslim community in adopter category. In
case o f non-adopter the average monthly income for Muslim community is higher as
compared Christian and Hindu.
Irrespective o f religion, the percentage o f the adopters o f family planning
methods is highcr in the present age group o f 26-35 years and lower in the age group
of below 20 years and 40 years above. The average age is higher for Hindus followed
by Christians and Muslim community. In contrary, in case o f non-adopters. higher
for Muslim community followed by Christians and Hindus. The total number o f
pregnancies for Muslim community adopters is higher as compared to Hindus and
Christians. In non-adopters category it is higher for Christians followed by Muslim
community and Hindus. The average number o f living children is higher for Muslim
community adopters followed by Christians and Hindus. Incase o f non-adopters it is
highcr for Chrinians followed by Muslim community and Hindus. The average
representing male and female children is comparatively higher for Muslim
community adopters and non-adopters. The percentage -undergone abortion is
greater in adopters than non-adopter's category irrespective o f religion. The average
number o f abortions is higher for Muslim community adopters and non-adopters as
compand to Hindus and Christians. There fore the high fertility segment (Muslim
community) experienced high incidence of pregnancies wastages.
The average number of children ever born is comparatively high for nonadopters irrespective of religion. The average live births are higher for Hindu
adopters followed by Christians and Muslim community but it is higher for Christian
in non-adopters compared to Muslim community and Hindus. Hence the socioeconomic characteristics of the sample ~ S p ~ n d e nare
t s found to have influence on
fertility and contraceptive.
In summing up, the socioeconomic characteristics of the respondents reveal
that they have profound influence over the fertility wnds and contraceptive
behaviour of the respondents. Religion has an influence on anitudes towards
adoption of contraception. Hindus constituted majority of the respondents in Karaikal
districts followed by Muslim and Christians.