ASHA workers to gift wedding kit containing condoms, contraceptives to newlyweds

BHUVANESWAR: The Odisha government is all set to distribute condoms and contraceptive pills to newly married couples in the state. The decision has been taken as part of the central government’s scheme Mission Parivar Vikas. The wedding kit called the ‘Nayi Pahal’ or ‘Nabadampati kit’ will be distributed by ASHA workers, along with brochures on the importance of safe sex, family planning and spacing out births.

Every kit will contain two towels, a nail cutter, a mirror, a comb, handkerchiefs, condoms, contraceptives and a marriage registration form. “The ASHAs will visit the houses where the wedding is taking place and gift the kit from September onwards. They, besides briefing the newlyweds about the spacing and limiting methods, will also keep a close watch on the benefit of the kit. They will get incentives,” said Dr Bijay Panigrahy, Director of Family Planning. The scheme will be implemented from September onwards.