The principal objective of the VNLSS is to collect basic data reflescting the actual living standard of the population. These data then be used for evaluating socio-economic development and formulationg policies to improve living standard. Followings are the main goals by the year of 2000. Reduce the population growth rate less than 2 % peryear Reduce the infant mortaility (under 5 years old) 0,81% (1990) to 0,55%; and from 0,46% (1990) to 0,3% (under one year old) Reduce the mortality rate of women concerning the pregnancy and maternity Reduce the malnutrition of children under 5years old from 51,5% at present to 40% in 1995 and under 30% by the year of 2000. Heavy malnutrition should not be existed by the year of 2000. Population can access to safe water resources from 43% (1990) to 82% of which 40% to 80% in rural areas. Population use sanitary latrine from 22% (1990) to 65% of which in rural areas from 15% to 60% 90 percent of children complete the endeavor universal first level education before the age of 15, and the rest should complete the third grade. By the year of 2000 no children at the age of 15 will be illiterate Improve the cultural, spiritual life of the children, to ensure that 30% of communes (by the year of 1995) and 50% of communes (by the year of 2000) have entertaining place for children The main information collected by the survey includes: Household income and expenditures Health and education Employment and other productive and activities Demographic characteristics and migration Housing conditions In addition, the information gatherd is intended to improve planning of economic and social policies in Vietnam and to assist in evaluating the impact of the policies. It should enable decision makers to: indentify target groups for government assistance Construct models of socio-economic development policies, both overall and on individuals groups Analyze the impact of decisions available and of the current economic situation on living condition of household
