(a) whether the Government have developed some new devices for Family Planning;
(b) if so, the details in this regard;
(c) whether these devices have been proved successful;
(d) if so, the extent to which the success has been achieved; and
(e) the steps being taken by the Government for their publicity?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND
FAMILY WELFARE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE)
(SHRI N.T. SHANMUGAM)
(a)&(b) Yes, Sir. Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow has developed a non-steroidal, non-hormonal Contraceptive Pill named `Centchroman`. It is being marketed as `Saheli` by the Public Sector undertaking M/s Hindustan Latex Limited. During the initial 3 months, 1 tablet is taken twice a week and thereafter once a week for as long as contraceptive protection is desired.
(c)&(d) Centchroman has been found to be successful in preventing unwanted pregnancy. The safety and efficacy of Centchroman is well within the acceptable levels of tolerance.
(e) The `Saheli` brand of contrnaceptive pill is being promoted by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Government of India through Social Marketing under the National Family Welfare Programme and by M/s Hindustan Latex Limited. Information education and communication campaigns are frequently advertising the product.