It has become increasingly relevant to ask if India needs more births as it manages its demographic situation. With over 1.45 billion people, India recently overtook China as the most populous country in the world. Then the future demographic balance is a concern, nevertheless, given the sharp drop in fertility rates.
Reasons for Encouraging Higher Birth Rates
Ageing Population
India is experiencing a rapid increase in its ageing population. When demographers warn that the country is “getting old before getting rich,” it could strain healthcare and social services. More babies could help balance this demographic shift by ensuring a larger working-age population in the future.
Political Representation
Southern states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu are advocating for higher birth rates due to fears of losing political representation. As fertility rates decline, these states worry that they will be penalized in terms of parliamentary seats and federal funding during the upcoming delimitation process.
Economic Concerns
A larger population can contribute to economic growth by providing a more extensive labour force. This demographic dividend could be crucial for sustaining economic momentum, especially as the country aims to enhance productivity and innovation.
Reasons Against Encouraging Higher Birth Rates
India is already dealing with serious issues brought on by its overpopulation, such as resource depletion, environmental damage, and poor infrastructure. Raising the birth rate may make these problems worse, putting more burden on public resources and raising poverty rates.
Economic Strain
Although having a larger workforce has certain advantages, if job creation does not keep up with population expansion, unemployment rates may rise. Economic instability and heightened rivalry for few resources could arise from this.
Impact on the Environment
Pollution and climate change are two major environmental issues facing India. These issues may worsen as the population grows, making sustainable development more challenging to accomplish.
The question of whether India needs more children is a complicated one that takes into account social, economic, and environmental factors. Raising the birth rate may help with issues like maintaining political representation and addressing the elderly population. It is impossible to overlook the problems of overpopulation and environmental sustainability. For policymakers to decide on the appropriate course of action for India’s demographic future, these variables must be carefully considered.
Read more on Lifetips.blog
