India’s Demographic Journey (GS Paper 3, Economy)
Introduction
- World Population Day, established in 1989 by the United Nations, serves as a global reminder of the challenges posed by population dynamics such as poverty, health disparities, and gender inequality.
- India's demographic trajectory has been shaped by these challenges alongside significant milestones in development and public health.
Historical Context and Demographic Transition
- During the 1960s and 1970s, the global population surged at an alarming rate of 2% annually, raising concerns of widespread poverty and food insecurity in India.
- However, contrary to predictions, India has navigated a remarkable demographic transition since then.
- Fertility rates have plummeted since the 1970s, dropping below the replacement level of 2.1 births per woman by 2021.
- This decline is attributed to improved living conditions, better healthcare access, and effective family planning initiatives.
Mortality Reduction and Aging Population
- India has also made significant strides in reducing maternal and child mortality rates, indicating improvements in healthcare infrastructure and services.
- As life expectancy increases, India faces the challenge of an aging population.
- The proportion of individuals aged 60 years and above is projected to rise from 8.6% in 2011 to 19.5% by 2050, necessitating policies focused on geriatric care and social security.
Impact on Development and Health
- The demographic shift towards lower fertility rates presents India with a demographic dividend potential, requiring investments in education and employment opportunities to harness the productive capacity of the youth.
- Advances in healthcare have led to lower mortality rates and improved life expectancy, underscoring the importance of continued investment in healthcare systems and public health initiatives.
Progress Towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- India has made notable progress towards achieving SDGs, particularly in poverty reduction.
- The proportion of the population living below the poverty line has declined significantly from 48% to 10% between 1990 and 2019, supported by initiatives like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
- Challenges remain in addressing nutrition and hunger, with persistent issues of stunting, wasting, and anaemia among children and women.
Challenges and Recommendations
- Income inequality remains a critical challenge, with a disproportionate concentration of wealth among the top percentile hindering equitable development.
- Health challenges such as the double burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) necessitate robust health policies and increased healthcare spending.
- Nutritional deficits continue to pose challenges, requiring targeted interventions and improved access to nutritious food.
Policy Recommendations and Future Outlook
- Addressing these challenges demands a multi-sectoral approach encompassing income redistribution, strengthened healthcare infrastructure, and enhanced nutrition programs.
- Promoting gender equality and empowering women are pivotal to catalysing progress across all development indicators.
- Effective implementation of policies and increased budget allocations are essential to achieving sustainable development and meeting SDG targets by 2030.
Conclusion
- India's demographic journey reflects significant achievements in healthcare and poverty reduction, yet persistent challenges in nutrition, healthcare access, and income inequality necessitate sustained efforts.
- Comprehensive policies, political commitment, and investments in human capital are imperative to ensure sustainable development and inclusive growth, thereby securing a prosperous future for all Indians.
