Patna, Jan 3 (IANS): In an innovative way to create awareness about population control, a paan seller in Bihar has been offering his customers a free condom with each betel leaf.

"I have been giving free condoms to all those who visit my shop for paan. Free condoms offer attracts many and it also help to create awareness about population control," said Nandlal Sah of Katihar district, runs his stall in Phalka bazaar.

Sah, in his early 40s, said: "It is my small effort or contribution to help population control."

He said some NGOs, medical representatives and others have been providing him condoms for free distribution. "But some time I have to purchase condoms after I failed to get condoms from NGOs or medical representatives on time."

Free distribution of condom also "boosted my paan business as some people consume paan for free condom", Sah added.

"I have also persuaded nearly 300 women for sterilisation till date," he said.

Bihar is one of the most densely populated states.

The Bihar government two years ago launched a major initiative to stabilise population and train adolescents on reproductive health and family planning.