LEVERAGING RELIGIOUS LEADERSHIP TO ENHANCE FAMILY PLANNING PRACTICES IN RURAL PAKISTAN

This paper explores the perception of religious leaders towards family planning in rural areas of Pakistan. With a population of over 200 million, Pakistan faces the challenge of managing its high birth rate to promote prosperity and happiness in society. The authors emphasize the significance of including religious leaders in family planning programs since they have a considerable influence on their followers. The study analyzes the socio-economic attributes, level of awareness, perception, and reflection of religious leaders on family planning. The results indicate that although religious leaders understand the negative impact of a large population size, their general and religious education is low, and they do not use contraceptives themselves or counsel their followers about family planning. The authors recommend organizing mobilization programs for religious leaders to familiarize them with the concept of balancing family size and economic resources. The findings imply that it is difficult to succeed in family planning programs in rural areas without bringing religious leaders into the mainstream of life.