A Dipstick Study on knowledge and involvement of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in Family Planning
Client: Population Foundation of India (PFI)
Location: Bihar and Rajasthan
Background Context: While the primary role in family planning is that of the health system, communities, and elected representatives, if effectively engaged, could play a significant role in overcoming the current challenges and furthering the gains.
The study aimed to understand knowledge, perspectives, role and engagement of Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members in the context of family planning.
Objectives
This study, commissioned by the Population Foundation of India and undertaken by Development Solutions, aimed to understand the current role being played by elected representatives/ PRIs in the context of public health, family planning, and gender in two states in India - Bihar, and Rajasthan. The specific objectives of the study are-
- To understand the knowledge and attitudes/ beliefs of PRI members towards family planning.
- To understand attitudes and perspectives of PRI members on gender and its intersection with family planning.
- To understand the awareness of PRI members on their role and mandate on family planning and health service provision.
- To understand the current role being played by PRI members in the context of family planning and health service provision.
- To understand if family planning and gender is a priority subject within the Department of Panchayati Raj (DoPR)/Department of Rural Development (DoRD) at the state level.
- To seek recommendations to address issues related to family planning and gender and bring it as a key agenda for PRIs.
Approach and Methodology
- Method/ Design: A mixed-method study methodology was used, comprising- an internet-based literature review, semi-structured interviews, and In-depth interviews
- Key Respondents/ Informants: Sarpanch/mukhiyas at village/ gram panchayat level; block and panchayat samiti members; zila parishad members; state officials of Panchayati Raj/ Rural Development; national/ ministry officials from the rural department
- Key Areas of Inquiry: Knowledge, awareness, and attitudes of PRI members in the context of health, family planning, and gender; roles and responsibilities of the PRI members; inter-departmental coordination among PRI members and different departments; capacity building of PRI members; challenges faced by PRI members in undertaking their role in family planning
- Sample: Quantitative- 60, Qualitative-41
Impact
The study enabled insights into how PRIs could be engaged in the context of Health and Family Planning in the studied states.
Contact
17/109, Lower Ground Floor, Vikram Vihar, Lajpat Nagar IV, New Delhi – 110024