Two-Child Norm, Adoption Can Help Control Population: Geeta Phogat

India's burgeoning population is a great cause of worry. At an event organised in Delhi, wrestling star Geeta Phogat suggested a way to keep the population in check. According to her, families must start adopting a two-child policy. And if they still wish to have a third one, they must adopt a girl child.

"Even problems of female foeticide and other concomitant issues can be addressed if we start educating people about the evil practice and the value of a girl child,"- Geeta Phogat

She didn't shy away from criticizing the heinous practice of female infanticide and foeticide that is prevalent in society. Women's education, according to her, is the panacea to bring an end to this menace and empower women.

"The problem of burgeoning population can be addressed if we begin with women itself. And, we need to educate them and spread awareness about birth control and family planning through TV channels and newspapers. Also, I feel the government must bring a law to control population," she said at the event that was organised by the Taxpayers Association of Bharat (TAXAB), a platform for citizen-driven movement for population stabilisation.

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Talking about the pivotal importance a girl child holds in our country, she adds, "Even problems of female foeticide and other concomitant issues can be addressed if we start educating them and others about the evil practice and the value of a girl child."

When asked what a family should do if they have two boys but still desire a girl child, Geeta said they should adopt a girl child.

Hailing from a state that's notorious for its skewed sex ratio, Geeta's successful career is an inspiration for everyone seeking change. Daughter of Dronacharya awardee Mahabir Singh Phogat, she is the first Indian female wrestler to get qualified for the Olympics.

Olympian wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt, who was also at the event, admitted that population was a grave issue our country was facing.

"We must come together in this campaign and impress upon the government to come up with a law on population control. Only with controlled population will the youth of the coming generation be strong and prosperous," Dutt said.

Read Also: Maneka Gandhi: Need new resolve to end female foeticide