First published in 1972, this reissue deals with the crucial issue of population explosion, one of the most crucial problems facing the contemporary developing world. Written by a world-renowned demographer and family planning specialist, the book deals specifically with the Indian experience.

Reviewing population change in India over the last century, Professor Chandrasekhar focuses on three key issues: the socioeconomic repercussions of reduced infant mortality in twentieth-century India; the rapid population growth from 1871 and its implications on India's efforts to raise her standard of living; and finally India's valiant efforts to promote family planning amongst her hundred million married couples.