When population education programs are linked to community outreach efforts, there may be a direct and immediate impact of fertility. Examples are given of 2 such programs in India and china. In India, state and nongovernmental resources support Maharashtra's 34 women's Development Camps (WDC) for women of childbearing age, which propose to affect fertility behavior and improve quality of life. 9 of these WDCs were set up in densely populated and low income areas, i.e., in Bombay, Pune, and Nashik. The remaining 25 were in rural areas. The 1035 women who participated tend to reflect the conditions of work overload and nutritional deprivation with few rights of decision making. Population education was tailored to the most immediate needs of participants. The aim was to develop awareness and understanding of population as it is related to socioeconomic development, family health, family and community living, and civic responsibilities which benefit the individual, family, community, and society. Critical thinking skills were developed, as well as the awareness of primary health care for women, children, and the family. This involved information on maternal and child care, personal and social hygiene, and the importance of women's education and literacy. Women's rights were discussed in terms of laws for women, consumers' protection act, inheritance rights, irrational beliefs and superstitions, and the injustices of castes and society. Training was given in handicraft making, other employment schemes, energy saving devices such as solar cookers and hand water pumps, sanitation, as well as savings opportunities. Personality development through the use of yoga, and warnings about alcohol, smoking, and drug taking were encouraged. Innovative methods were used to maintain involvement. In China, 34 Peasant Secondary Vocational Schools in Hunan province (1000 teachers and cadres and 25,000 students) provided courses in reproductive responsibility. Specific school results indicated changes in attitudes and support for the 1 child family and delayed marriage. Many engaged in programs to educate peasants in villages on birth control, and hold influential positions after graduation in their communities. College students become agents of change, and teachers sensitize the community too population issues.