Why is community participation needed in the National Population Policy?

Correct answer: Because family decisions are influenced by social norms

Correct answer: A. Population policies concern decisions made by people and families, and those decisions are often influenced by customs, beliefs, expectations and social norms in the community. When local people, health workers, teachers and community organisations participate, correct information can spread and services can become more acceptable and useful. Participation also helps identify local concerns instead of applying a single approach without understanding people’s circumstances. Option B is wrong because community participation is not needed because the government has stopped conducting a census; census work and community involvement in health decisions are different matters. Option C is wrong because health services are essential to the policy. Option D is wrong because education can improve awareness and informed decision-making. The important idea is that a policy cannot succeed through official instructions alone when family behaviour is shaped by society. Memory cue: social decisions need social participation.