As fertility rates decline in India, future demographic concerns center around an aging population and frail social security system. Discuss. (Answer in 250 words)
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+)
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.
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
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.
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
BHAVIKA CHOFRA
Role of Women and Women's Organization, Population and Associated Issues, Poverty and Developmental issues
Population and Associated Issues
Aging population and demographic challenges
301
Total words
3
Paragraphs
academic and analytical
Tone