RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's Warning: The Peril of a Declining Population Growth Rate
RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat has voiced concerns over the declining population growth rate in India, warning that a rate below 2.1 could spell the end for society. He emphasizes the critical role of the family in maintaining a healthy population.
Population GrowthRssMohan BhagwatFertility RatesIndiaReal EstateDec 02, 2024
Bhagwat cited 'Loksankhya Shastra,' which posits that a population growth rate below 2.1 could lead to societal collapse, regardless of external factors. He also referenced India’s population policy, established around 1998 or 2002, which sets a target growth rate of no less than 2.1. According to Bhagwat, population science suggests that a rate of at least 3 is necessary for the survival of society.
The decline in India's population growth is a growing concern. Economist Shamika Ravi, a member of the Economic Advisory Council to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recently noted on X that fertility rates in over three-quarters of Indian states are below the levels needed to sustain the population. According to the United Nations (UN) World Population Prospects report, India's peak population is projected to be 1.701 billion in 2062, after which the population will start to decline.
Currently, India is the most populous country in the world and is expected to hold this position until the end of the century. The UN report indicates that India will start losing population after 2062, with the decline becoming more pronounced each year. By 2065, the country could lose nearly 800,000 people annually.
In response to these concerns, Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have taken steps to encourage higher birth rates. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has warned about the implications of an aging population, stating that his government is considering laws to incentivize larger families. He pointed out that an increase in the elderly population could strain the state's economy, similar to the challenges faced by developed countries like Japan, China, and parts of Europe.
Naidu also highlighted that the fertility rate in southern states has dropped to 1.6, far below the national average of 2.1. In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister MK Stalin has similarly called on residents to have more children. Speaking at a wedding in Chennai, Stalin cited an old Tamil saying, 'padhinarum petru peru vazhvu vazhga,' which means that people should strive for 16 types of wealth, such as fame, education, and lineage, rather than aiming for 16 children.
Both chief ministers are emphasizing the need to balance traditional values with the necessity of maintaining a healthy population growth rate to ensure the well-being and future of their states.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the target population growth rate set by India’s population policy?
India’s population policy, established around 1998 or 2002, sets a target population growth rate of no less than 2.1.
What does 'Loksankhya Shastra' suggest about the population growth rate?
'Loksankhya Shastra' suggests that if the population growth rate drops below 2.1, a society will self-destruct, regardless of external influences.
What is the projected peak population of India according to the UN World Population Prospects report?
According to the UN World Population Prospects report, India's peak population is projected to be 1.701 billion in 2062.
What are the concerns raised by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu regarding the aging population?
N Chandrababu Naidu has warned that an increase in the elderly population could strain the state's economy, similar to the challenges faced by developed countries like Japan, China, and parts of Europe.
What is the fertility rate in southern states of India, according to Naidu?
According to Naidu, the fertility rate in southern states of India has dropped to 1.6, far below the national average of 2.1.
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