POPULATION CHANGE AND HEALTH CARE

With the onset of the LPG (liberalization, privatization, globalization) era in the country, India witnessed not only extensive economic development but also the expansion of infrastructural facilities in the country. As a result, there have been lots of changes in the entire process of population movements, especially in the growth and distribution. In view of this, the studies of population have acquired immense value in understanding different dimensions of a given area/region.

In Karnataka, the socio-economic development as well as the growth and distribution of population vary from district to district and one region to another. The growth of population in Karnataka as elsewhere in India is a fundamental obstacle and the chief determinant factor in the process of economic development. The present work thus contributes to an understanding of spatial variations in the state of Karnataka by looking at the dimensions of population growth and health care. Though mortality has gradually fallen over time, but much remains to be done. There is thus need to strengthen efforts to improve the health conditions in the state. This calls for a detailed examination of health conditions and, in particular, health care infrastructure in the state. Addressing this issue, the book pays special attention to the health needs of children.

Besides the researchers studying other dimensions of Karnataka’s society and economy, the book will also be found useful for policy makers and planners.

C.M. Lakshmana is Associate Professor, Population Research Centre, Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC), Bangalore. He has published several research articles in reputed national and international journals. His current areas of research are population and environment, urban geography, gender and development issues.