Description

Copyright infringement not intended

Picture Courtesy: https://www.thefinancialworld.com/dangers-of-aging-population/

Context:

Due to declining fertility rates, South Indian States are facing an aging population; more older people compared to younger ones.

Aging population in South Indian States

South Indian States; Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana are witnessing a demographic shift towards an aging population. This trend is driven by declining fertility rates and increasing life expectancy, leading to a higher proportion of elderly residents.

Demographic Trends

Kerala achieved replacement-level fertility (2.1 children per woman) as early as 1988.
Andhra Pradesh reached this level in 2004.
Tamil Nadu has a fertility rate well below the national average.
Life expectancy in these states is higher compared to the national average, contributing to a larger elderly population.

Why Is This Happening?

Better Healthcare and advancements in medicine and healthcare, people are living longer. Treatments for various diseases have improved, and more folks have access to essential healthcare services.

Families are choosing to have fewer kids these days, this shift leads to a higher proportion of older people compared to younger ones.

Many people are moving to cities for work opportunities. As they pursue these new jobs, they usually delay marriage and having children, contributing to an aging population.

Aging Population and Fertility Trends in India

Between 2011 and 2036, India’s population is expected to grow by 31.1 crore people. Half of this growth will come from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh. The Southern states will contribute only 2.9 crore to the total increase.

The number of elderly persons (aged 60+) is expected to more than double, from 10 crore in 2011 to 23 crore in 2036. Kerala will have nearly 1 in 4 people over 60 by 2036, while Uttar Pradesh will have only 12% of its population in this age bracket.

World Health Organization Report

All countries face major challenges to ensure that their health and social systems are ready to make the most of this demographic shift.

In 2050, 80% of older people will be living in low- and middle-income countries.

The pace of population ageing is much faster than in the past.

In 2020, the number of people aged 60 years and older outnumbered children younger than 5 years.

Between 2015 and 2050, the proportion of the world's population over 60 years will nearly double from 12% to 22%.

Challenges

With fewer babies being born, the younger population is shrinking. This can lead to problems as there won’t be enough young workers to support the economy in the future.

A smaller workforce indicates less innovation and productivity, which could slow down economic growth and make it harder for industries to find the workers they need.

Concerns have been raised about how this demographic change might affect political representation, if a state has low population, it will lose parliamentary seats, which could diminish the state's voice in national matters.

With more older adults comes a greater need for healthcare and social services. If there aren’t enough younger people in the workforce to support these systems financially, it could lead to significant challenges.

Older adults require more medical attention, which can strain our healthcare system. Families also feel the pressure of medical expenses for their elderly loved ones.

Many older adults depends on pensions for their livelihoods, with increasing number of retirees, the pension systems may struggle that could affect financial security.

Pro-natalist Policies: Case Study

Pro-natalist policies are initiatives that governments adopt to motivate families to have more children, it includes financial incentives, parental leave, and childcare services to boost the birth rate.

Japan

The government has rolled out various incentives to motivate families to have more kids. They offer financial support, extended parental leave, and childcare options. Despite these efforts, Japan’s fertility rate remains low, because many Japanese people face high living costs and feel immense pressure to prioritize their careers.

China

After decades of implementing the one-child policy, the country is now tussling with a demographic crisis. In response, the government has relaxed birth policies and introduced financial incentives to encourage larger families. But the results have been disappointing. Many young couples worry about the high costs of living and the expenses that come with raising children.

Sweden and Norway

Countries like Sweden and Norway have seen some success with their pro-natalist policies. They emphasize comprehensive family support systems, promote gender equality, and encourage a good work-life balance. Because of this, they’ve managed to keep their fertility rates stable. The vital support from the government helps families feel more secure about having children, and also pursuing their careers and dreams.

Challenges and Limitations

In wealthier and more educated societies, people often choose to have fewer children. This is usually because raising kids can be very expensive, and personal career goals often take precedence. Simply offering financial incentives isn’t enough to convince people to have larger families.

Cultural attitudes around family size and gender roles play a big role in how effective these policies are. If societal norms don’t change, spending money at the problem won’t help.

Many experts argue that pro-natalist policies usually fail in prosperous societies because they fail to address the broader needs of families. They stress the importance of developing comprehensive support systems that offer more than just financial aid.

Way Forward

Offering financial support, like tax breaks or cash bonuses for having children, could help make parenthood more manageable.

Provide sufficient maternity and paternity leave to allow parents to spend time with their new babies without the stress of work.

Increasing access to quality and affordable childcare would support families, making it easier for parents to consider having more kids.

Spreading the word about the benefits of larger families can help shift cultural attitudes, if people see having more children as a positive thing, it might encourage them to expand their families.

Creating more jobs in urban areas, cities to attract younger individuals. This influx of youth can help balance the age demographic and bring new energy to local economies.

Conclusion

The aging population in South Indian States is a challenge that needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. By encouraging larger families and facilitating internal migration, South Indian States can work towards a balanced population that supports a prosperous society for years to come.

Must Read Articles:

INDIA AGEING REPORT

AGEING POPULATION IN INDIA

Source:

Indian Express

Wikipedia

World Health Organization

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Critically analyze the impact of India’s aging population on its economic growth and social security systems. What policy measures can be implemented to mitigate the challenges posed by this demographic shift? (250 words)