Mumbai, Dec. 6 -- The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has completed its annual male sterilisation fortnight, conducting 24 vasectomy procedures between November 21 and December 4. The initiative was aimed at encouraging men to take equal responsibility in family planning. While the numbers show a small rise, 20 procedures in 2023, 18 in 2024 and now 24, officials admit participation continues to lag significantly behind female sterilisation. "Despite awareness drives, male acceptance remains low. We aim to normalise conversations around vasectomy and encourage men to participate equally," a senior civic health official said. Under the family welfare programme, BMC offers free male and female sterilisation services, Copper-T insertion, contraceptive pills, condoms, injectable contraceptives. From 2022 to 2025, Mumbai saw 34,805 sterilisation surgeries, including 1,467 male vasectomies and 33,338 female procedures, a stark gap highlighting continued burden on women. Beneficiaries are compensated Rs.1,451 for vasectomy and Rs.250 for female sterilisation, while SC/ST beneficiaries receive Rs.600. "We have increased outreach for awareness. The BMC is working on acceptance of sterilisation among men. We are promoting timely contraception as well," said an official....