Demographic transition in Maharashtra, 1980-93

The main thrust of the article is to evaluate demographic transition in Mah arashtra, especially during 12 years from 1980-92, on the basis of data mad e available by two national surveys on fertility and mortality rates, and f amily health. The study shows that despite high contraceptive prevalence in Maharashtra, there is a very model-ate decline in birth rate, in the state . Better reproductive health facilities leading to reduced foetal losses, l esser childlessness and reduced breast-feeding, can be said to be the main factor contributing in increase in fertility. In such situation, only stren gthening of IEC component of the family welfare services can result in decl ine in fertility in Maharashtra.