The publication reviews the population programme in Sri Lanka since it became a national programme in 1965. The programme is described in phases namely; 1) Launching stage 1965-1976, 2) Developing stage 1977-1981, 3) Maturity stage 1982-1989, and 4) Advanced stage 1990-2000. Under each phase, the enviornment, strategy, structure and managerial aspects are discussed. In addtion, a brief outline of the institutional, programme and socio-economic factors are presented. Finally, the strategic issues for the future are discussed under a) sustainability of the programme, b) improved availability and accessibility c) quality of care, d) family life education and reproductive health, e) new IEC strategies and, f) improved supervision and monitoring.