BC

BHAVIKA CHOFRAAIR 25· 2025

Question 19GS1GS1

As fertility rates decline in India, future demographic concerns center around an aging population and frail social security system. Discuss. (Answer in 250 words)

Open scan (p.50)

Introduction

Fertility rate refers to the average number of children a woman would bear in her lifetime. This for India has reached 2.0 TFR as per NFHS-5.

26 words

Main Body

Demographic concerns:

1. Reduced demographic window as TFR falls below 2.0 (replacement level is 2.1)

2. Increased fiscal burden on State as working age population retires (60-65+)

3. Increased burden on healthcare systemgeriatric cases, palliative care [citizens 12% of population in 2021]

4. Lack of financial inclusion amongst rural elderly and rural elderly women.

5. Low enrollment in social security schemes for middle class.

[Table showing:

Upper Class / Middle Class / Poor Sections

Private Insurance: Health/Life / Unaffordable / PM-JAI, PM Pension, Atal Pension

]

Thus, to address weak social security system:

1. Need improvements in healthcare (reduction in out of pocket expenditure)

2. Need provision of old-age homes as family structures change.

3. Need more productive jobs for youth. (Youth earnings)(Pension schemes for retirees)

4. Need to address digital divide: among rural and urban populations (30% rural women use internet)

5. Address digital literacy: for aging populations.

6. Address regional divide: lower of dividend will be states such as UP, Bihar, Jharkhand were TFR > 2.0.

7. Harness silver economy: by opening internships for retirees

8. Improve women workforce participationend income inclusionprovide safety of savings and independence.

A declining TFR is hard to reverse as seen in countries like Japan. India's per capita GDP said to grow by 43% by 2061. To reap this dividend, one must also focus social security that fosters a healthy population.

236 words3 paragraphs

Conclusion

A declining TFR is hard to reverse as seen in countries like Japan. India's per capita GDP said to grow by 43% by 2061. To reap this dividend, one must also focus social security that fosters a healthy population.

39 words

  • Clear definition of fertility rate
  • Uses specific data (2.0 TFR, NFHS-5)
  • Identifies multiple demographic challenges
  • Mentions gender-specific issues

Topper

BHAVIKA CHOFRA

AIR 252025

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Role of Women and Women's Organization, Population and Associated Issues, Poverty and Developmental issues

Population and Associated Issues

Aging population and demographic challenges

Writing Stats

301

Total words

3

Paragraphs

academic and analytical

Tone