What effects does population expansion have on resource management and economic growth in India?
Model Answer Introduction India's overall sex ratio was recorded at 943 females per 1,000 males in 2011. However, this figure masks significant regional disparities. For instance, according to the NITI Aayog’s SDG 2019 Index, Punjab's sex ratio fell from 893 to 886, while Haryana's was even lower atRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
India’s overall sex ratio was recorded at 943 females per 1,000 males in 2011. However, this figure masks significant regional disparities. For instance, according to the NITI Aayog’s SDG 2019 Index, Punjab’s sex ratio fell from 893 to 886, while Haryana’s was even lower at 833. These states, despite their high per capita incomes, exhibit adverse sex ratios, contrasting with better ratios in economically weaker regions like Bihar and Jharkhand.
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Reasons for Adverse Sex Ratios in Prosperous Regions
- Son Preference: In affluent families, there is a strong belief that sons will provide better financial support in old age. This cultural mindset prioritizes male offspring as the primary wage earners, leading to a preference for sons over daughters.
- Desire for Smaller Families: Educated women often prefer having fewer children. However, this trend results in a preference for male children, as families believe that a single child should be male to inherit property and carry on the family name.
- Property Inheritance: In prosperous regions, property is highly valued, and social norms dictate that only male children inherit family assets. This reinforces the preference for sons, as families aim to secure their wealth through male heirs.
- Social Practices: Despite legal prohibitions against dowry, the practice persists, particularly in wealthier regions. Families may view daughters as financial burdens due to dowry expectations, further contributing to the adverse sex ratio.
- Access to Sex Selection Technologies: Increased income and awareness have made it easier for couples to access prenatal sex selection technologies, despite legal restrictions. This accessibility allows families to choose the sex of their child, often favoring males.
- Selective Neglect: The child sex ratio reflects broader societal practices, including selective neglect of girls, which exacerbates the imbalance between the number of girls and boys.
Conclusion
To address the adverse sex ratio in prosperous regions, a shift in societal attitudes is essential. This includes stricter enforcement of laws against dowry and sex-selective abortions, as well as reforms in inheritance laws. While India has made strides in population control, achieving a balanced sex ratio remains a significant challenge.
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Population growth in India significantly impacts both economic development and resource management in several ways: Economic Development Labor Force Expansion: A growing population can enhance the labor force, potentially driving economic growth. However, if job creation doesn't keep pace, it can leRead more
Population growth in India significantly impacts both economic development and resource management in several ways:
Economic Development
Labor Force Expansion: A growing population can enhance the labor force, potentially driving economic growth. However, if job creation doesn’t keep pace, it can lead to high unemployment and underemployment.
Consumer Market: A larger population increases demand for goods and services, which can stimulate economic growth. This creates opportunities for businesses but also requires infrastructure development.
Youth Demographics: India has a relatively young population, which can be an asset if properly harnessed through education and skill development. A well-educated workforce can drive innovation and productivity.
Economic Disparities: Rapid population growth can exacerbate income inequality, as the benefits of growth may not be evenly distributed. This can lead to social tensions and hinder overall development.
Resource Management
Strain on Resources: Increased population intensifies pressure on natural resources such as water, land, and energy. Overexploitation can lead to environmental degradation and resource depletion.
Agricultural Demand: A growing population raises the demand for food, necessitating improvements in agricultural productivity. This can lead to overuse of fertilizers and water, impacting sustainability.
Urbanization: Rapid population growth drives urbanization, leading to the expansion of cities. This can create challenges in housing, transportation, and sanitation, often resulting in informal settlements.
Environmental Impact: Greater population density can lead to increased pollution and waste generation, requiring better management practices and policies to mitigate environmental damage.
Conclusion
See lessBalancing population growth with economic development and sustainable resource management is crucial for India’s future. Strategic planning in education, infrastructure, healthcare, and environmental protection is essential to harness the potential benefits of population growth while mitigating its challenges.