Why did India’s human development not keep up with its economic progress? (two hundred and fifty words) [UPSC 2023]
Model Answer Introduction The concept of a demographic winter refers to a prolonged decline in birth rates and an aging population, which leads to a shrinking workforce and various societal challenges. This phenomenon is characterized by several key features: Declining Birth Rates Demographic winterRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The concept of a demographic winter refers to a prolonged decline in birth rates and an aging population, which leads to a shrinking workforce and various societal challenges. This phenomenon is characterized by several key features:
Declining Birth Rates
Demographic winter is marked by persistently low birth rates, often falling below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman. For instance, Russia has experienced significant declines in fertility rates, contributing to an aging population and a shrinking labor force.
Aging Population
A significant aspect of demographic winter is the increasing median age within the population, as the proportion of elderly individuals rises. Countries like Germany and Greece are witnessing a growing share of senior citizens, which can lead to increased healthcare and pension burdens on the younger population.
Population Decline
Demographic winter often results in an overall decline in population size, where death rates may exceed birth rates. Bulgaria, for example, has seen a dramatic population decrease due to low fertility and emigration, raising concerns about economic sustainability.
Current Global Trends
The world is indeed moving towards demographic winter in certain regions. Many countries are experiencing widespread low fertility rates; for example, South Korea’s fertility rate has dropped to one of the lowest globally, raising alarms about future population sustainability. Additionally, delayed marriages and parenthood, urbanization, and rising living costs further exacerbate this trend, particularly in urbanized countries like South Korea and Singapore.
Exceptions to the Trend
However, not all regions are experiencing this decline. Sub-Saharan Africa, for instance, still has high fertility rates, with countries like Niger and Uganda maintaining rates above five children per woman. This contrasts sharply with the trends seen in Europe and East Asia.
Conclusion
In summary, demographic winter poses significant challenges for countries facing declining birth rates and aging populations. Addressing these issues through pro-natalist policies, economic reforms, and adapting to an aging population is crucial for ensuring future sustainability and resilience.
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Human development in India has struggled to keep pace with economic development due to several interrelated factors: Inequality and Unequal Distribution of Resources: Income Disparity: Economic growth has often been uneven, with significant disparities in income and wealth. While some regions and seRead more
Human development in India has struggled to keep pace with economic development due to several interrelated factors:
Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that integrates economic growth with targeted investments in human development, improved governance, and social equity. Ensuring that economic benefits are widely shared and that human development indicators are prioritized will be crucial for achieving balanced and sustainable progress.
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