The correct answer is option D) 1952.

In 1947, India gained independence from British rule and faced numerous challenges, including a rapidly growing population. To address this issue, India became the first country to officially announce a population policy in 1952.

Here is a detailed explanation of India's population policy and its significance:

1. Background:
- India's population was rapidly increasing, posing a significant challenge for the newly independent country.
- The need for a population policy was recognized due to the strain on resources, healthcare, education, and overall development.

2. The establishment of the population policy:
- In 1949, the Family Planning Association of India (FPAI) was formed as a non-governmental organization to promote family planning and population control.
- In 1952, the Government of India launched its first official population policy with the establishment of the Family Planning Program.
- The policy aimed to educate and encourage couples to have small families through the use of various contraceptive methods.

3. Objectives of the population policy:
- The primary objective was to stabilize India's population growth by promoting family planning and reducing the birth rate.
- It aimed to improve the overall health and well-being of families by spacing out pregnancies and ensuring access to maternal and child healthcare.
- The policy also focused on empowering women by providing them with knowledge and resources for reproductive choices.

4. Strategies and initiatives:
- The government implemented various strategies to achieve the population policy's objectives, including:
- Promoting the use of contraceptives and family planning methods through awareness campaigns and educational programs.
- Establishing family planning clinics and centers to provide accessible and affordable reproductive healthcare services.
- Training healthcare professionals, volunteers, and accredited social health activists (ASHAs) to disseminate information and provide counseling.
- Collaborating with international organizations and donors to enhance resources and technical support for family planning programs.

5. Impact and outcomes:
- Over the years, India's population policy has had both successes and challenges.
- The policy has contributed to a decline in the total fertility rate, from an estimated 6 in the 1950s to around 2.2 in recent years.
- It has also led to increased awareness and acceptance of family planning methods and reproductive rights.
- However, challenges such as regional disparities, limited access to healthcare in rural areas, and cultural factors have affected the policy's implementation and outcomes.

In conclusion, India became the first country to announce an official population policy in 1952. This policy aimed to stabilize population growth, promote family planning, and improve the overall well-being of families. Despite challenges, the population policy has made significant contributions to promoting reproductive health and rights in India.