The most effective step in MCH is -

The objectives of MCH care are- 1. Reduction of morbidity and moality rates of mothers and children 2. Promotion of reproductive health 3. Promotion of the physical and psychological development of child within family This is achieved by working under the following sub components- 1. Maternal health 2. Family planning 3. Child health 4. School health 5. Handicapped children 6. Care of children in special settings such as day care centres It is evident from the objectives and Sub components that the most effective step is maternal health promotion . Factors that effect maternal health such as urbanisation , rural migration , changing patterns of women&;s work and status is seen to have direct effect on child bearing and child rearing. Thus by achieving maternal health,it is possible to assure the achievement of all other steps. Hence option 1 is the most appropriate answer. Reference Park&;s textbook of preventive and social medicine 23rd edition pg 555