The article highlights India's transition to a low-fertility society as the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has fallen to near replacement levels over the last 25 years
GS1History · Society · Geography· Population, demography & migration· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The article highlights India's transition to a low-fertility society as the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has fallen to near replacement levels over the last 25 years.
Background
The National Family Health Surveys (NFHS) indicate that India's TFR dropped from nearly four children per woman in the 1990s to around replacement level. Most Indian states now report a TFR below 2.1 children per woman.
Facts for Prelims
- FactReplacement level fertility is generally cited as 2.1 children per woman.
- FactIndia's TFR has fallen from near four children per woman in the 1990s to near replacement levels.
- FactNFHS (National Family Health Surveys) is the primary source for tracking India's fertility and health trends.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the socio-economic implications of India's transition to a low-fertility society and the institutional measures required to manage a shrinking demographic base.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Labor market contraction: Potential shortage of skilled labor and rising dependency ratios in an aging population.
- Institutional adaptation: Need for revised pension systems and healthcare infrastructure for a geriatric-heavy demographic.
- Gender-education nexus: Correlation between rising female literacy and the diffusion of smaller family size norms.
Keywords: Total Fertility Rate · Replacement Level · Demographic Transition · Dependency Ratio · Human Capital
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