Changes in India’s population perspectives

Source: The post changes in India’s population perspectives has been created, based on the article “India’s new trilemma” published in “Business standard” on 1st July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper1-Society-population and associated issues and GS paper 3-Indian Economy – Growth, development and employment

Context: The article discusses India’s demographic changes, contrasting past fears of overpopulation with current hopes for economic growth due to a young workforce. It also highlights the intense competition for education, brain drain to Western countries, and millennials’ choice to prioritize careers over having children.

For detailed information on Challenges of Demographic dividend in India read this article here

Why are millennials not having children?

Many millennials prioritize their careers over having children. They believe children would distract them from their professional goals. This choice affects India’s expected demographic dividend.

How did India approach population control in the past?

1. Government Initiatives: The government organized “vasectomy camps” in 1971, targeting sterilizations as a form of population control.
2. Sterilization Statistics: In 1971 alone, approximately 1.3 million men underwent sterilization, with a target of 3.1 million by the following year.

3.International Support and Pressure: The World Bank provided $66 million in aid for sterilization programs from 1972 to 1980. Additionally, U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson linked food aid to India’s adoption of sterilization policies in 1965.

How has the perspective on India’s population changed?

1. 1970s Perspective: Previously, India viewed its high population growth as an economic burden. Efforts focused on aggressive population control measures, such as sterilization.
2. Modern View: Today, India sees its large, young population as a demographic dividend. A high proportion of working-age individuals (15-64 years old) is now considered a potential economic advantage, expected to drive growth.
3. Historical Context: In 1971, efforts included 1.3 million sterilizations, reflecting the urgency of controlling population growth, compared to current policies emphasizing economic utilization of the population.

How is demographic impacting education and employment in India?

1. Intense Competition: Over a million students compete for limited seats at IITs, medical colleges, and IIMs. For example, 1 million applicants for 10,000 IIT seats.
2. Brain Drain: Many qualified Indians, like Satya Nadella and Sundar Pichai, seek opportunities abroad, contributing to $125 billion in remittances.
3. High Costs: Real estate prices in metro cities are high, pushing many to look for jobs overseas.
4. Family-Run Businesses: Limited top management roles in India’s family-owned businesses drive professionals to seek better prospects abroad.

Question for practice:

Discuss how the changing demographics in India are influencing the country’s approach to population management and economic development.