Andhra Pradesh Scraps Two-Child Policy for Local Body Elections (GS Paper 2, Polity)
Introduction
- On August 7, 2024, Andhra Pradesh took a notable step by repealing the two-child norm for contesting local body elections.
- This decision, made during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, reflects the state’s evolving demographic and socio-economic landscape.
- The move highlights the government's commitment to adapting policies to contemporary challenges and ensuring more inclusive participation in local governance.
Background of the Two-Child Policy
- The two-child policy in Andhra Pradesh was introduced through amendments to the Andhra Pradesh Municipal Corporation Act 1955 and the Andhra Pradesh Municipalities Act 1965.
- The policy aimed to encourage family planning by disqualifying individuals with more than two children from standing for urban local body elections.
- While the restriction for Panchayat Raj elections was lifted in 2019, it remained in place for other local bodies.
Reasons for Scrapping the Policy
Declining Fertility Rate
- One of the primary reasons for repealing the policy is the significant decline in the state’s fertility rate.
- Andhra Pradesh's fertility rate has dropped to 1.5%, which is well below the national average of 2.1%.
- This trend is indicative of broader demographic changes, including a shrinking younger population and a growing elderly demographic.
- The policy, initially intended to control population growth, has become less relevant in the context of these changing dynamics.
Ageing Population
- The demographic shift towards an older population is a critical factor in the decision.
- Currently, 11% of Andhra Pradesh’s population is over 60 years old, a figure expected to rise to 19% by 2047.
- This increasing proportion of elderly individuals poses challenges for economic productivity and social services.
- By eliminating the two-child restriction, the government aims to address the needs of a changing electorate and ensure that local governance can benefit from the participation of experienced and diverse candidates.
Economic Considerations
- The state's average reproductive age is also rising, with males averaging 32.5 years and females 29 years, projected to increase by 2047.
- This demographic trend suggests a future decrease in the economically active population, which could impact the state’s growth and development.
- By scrapping the policy, the government seeks to expand the pool of potential candidates for local elections, thereby ensuring effective representation and governance.
Other Cabinet Decisions
Issuance of New Pattadar Passbooks
- In addition to repealing the two-child policy, the Andhra Pradesh Cabinet approved the issuance of new Pattadar passbooks.
- These updated records will feature the state’s official emblem and QR codes, replacing the previous passbooks that bore the image of former Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy.
- This update aims to modernize land record management and enhance transparency.
Extension of Ban on CPI-Maoist and RDF
- The Cabinet also decided to extend the ban on the Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) and the Revolutionary Democratic Front (RDF) for an additional year under the Andhra Pradesh Public Security Act, 1992.
- This extension reflects ongoing concerns about security and the need to maintain public safety.
New Excise Policy
- A new excise policy, set to be implemented from October 1, 2024, will address liquor regulation and revenue collection.
- The updated policy aims to streamline excise operations and potentially enhance revenue for the state.
Implications of the Policy Change
Increased Political Participation
- The repeal of the two-child policy is expected to increase political participation by allowing a larger and more diverse group of individuals to contest local body elections.
- This inclusivity can lead to more representative and effective local governance.
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Adaptation to Demographic Trends
- The decision reflects a broader adaptation to demographic trends.
- By aligning policies with current population dynamics, the government is positioning itself to better address the needs of its citizens and ensure sustainable development.
Enhanced Governance
- With more candidates eligible to stand for elections, there is potential for enhanced governance and decision-making at the local level.
- This change can lead to more innovative solutions and greater responsiveness to community needs.
Conclusion
- The decision by Andhra Pradesh to scrap the two-child policy for local body elections marks a significant shift in the state’s approach to governance and population management.
- By addressing the declining fertility rate and an ageing population, the government is taking proactive steps to ensure inclusive and effective local governance.
- This move, alongside other key Cabinet decisions, reflects the state’s commitment to adapting to evolving demographic and socio-economic realities, ultimately aiming to foster greater participation and improved governance.
