Fertility Behaviour in Chamar Community

Abstract

This study entitled " Fertility Behavior in Chamar community of Asanpur VDC of Siraha District" was carried out specifically ward No. 4,5,6, and 7 of Asanpur VDC with aim of finding the demographic and socio-economic and knowledge and practice of fertility in Chamar community .

A month long field operation was launched in the study area. There are altogether 2500 households and 11000 population reside in Asanpur VDC. There are 150 Chamar households in Asanpur VDC. Among them the total population of Chamar 750. Out of then, there are 360 are male and 390 are Female. Out of 390, there are 120 female in reproductive age which is the sample size of this study. The study area and Chamar community were chosen purposively and respondents (i.e. 15-49 years Chamar women having at least on child) were taken by census method and interviewed through structured and semi- structured interview schedule.

Majority of the respondents had adopted early marriage, premature pregnancy, higher fertility and child loss experiences. Nearly one fourth o fourth respondents had an appropriate concept of family planning.

Illiteracy has been one of he vital cause for their high fertility level because of their early marriage and less awareness about family planning etc. But by the study it is seen that even some of the educated Chamar hesitate and do not use contraceptives because they have the deep rooted belief that children are the gift of god, therefore, not only the education for the uneducated but also the awareness about the demerits of populations growth and early marriage should be provided through NGOs, INGOs and even from the government sector, and it will, of course, result in diminishing their high fertility level and their life will ultimately become easier and more comfortable.