Bhubaneswar:Over the last many years, India has experienced a significant decline in its fertility rate. This decline in fertility rate is often referred to as the “demographic transition.”
Replacement level fertility is the average number of children per woman needed to maintain a stable population size, typically estimated to be around 2.1. If a community or a country’s number falls below 2.1, then it faces a population decline. And if this number falls further below and is not maintained at 2.1, then the decline soon turns into a demographic crisis.
As of 2021, India’s replacement fertility rate has fallen below 2. This decline is substantial and reflects a significant change in population dynamics. This means, India’s population boom is now a thing of the past and going forward, India’s population will decline drastically.
Increased access to family planning: The Indian government has implemented various family planning programs and initiatives aimed at improving access to contraception and reproductive healthcare services. These efforts have helped educate individuals about family planning methods and increased the availability and affordability of contraceptives.
Improvements in women’s education and empowerment:
As women’s education levels have risen in India, they have gained more control over their reproductive choices. Educated women tend to marry later, have greater access to information about contraception, and are more likely to use contraceptives effectively, which can lead to a decline in fertility rates.
Socio-Economic development: As countries experience economic and social development, fertility rates tend to decline. Improved access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for women, along with urbanization and changing societal norms, have played a role in reducing fertility rates in India.
Urbanization and changing societal norms: As India undergoes urbanization and experiences shifts in social and cultural norms, there has been a decrease in the desire for larger family sizes. Urban areas typically have higher education levels, greater access to family planning services, and increased employment opportunities for women, which can influence fertility decisions. Further, many couples now prefer smaller families due to factors such as career aspirations, the desire for better quality of life, and the costs associated with raising children.
Economic factors: Economic considerations, such as the rising cost of raising children and changing family structures, have also played a role in reducing fertility rates. As families face increased expenses and changing societal expectations, they may choose to have fewer children.
