Kerala led India’s shift to low fertility and mortality rates, achieving a replacement-level fertility rate in 1987-88.
The decline in births has ironically increased the maternal mortality ratio in the state.
Kerala’s fertility rate of 2.1 (replacement level) leads to fewer births, which could impact future population size and representation in Lok Sabha seats.
Countries like South Korea are facing challenges with declining population growth despite incentives to encourage childbearing.
Stages of Demographic Transition: The theory involves four stages—high birth and death rates, rapid population growth, stabilization, and eventual decline.
A shrinking working-age population and a growing elderly population could strain resources and public finances.
The reduction in the working-age population and increase in the elderly will lead to significant societal and economic pressures.
Governments need to strengthen healthcare financing, social support systems, and encourage policies supporting equal participation in household chores to adapt to an aging population.
Demographic transition is inevitable, but governments must plan for its consequences and adjust public policies accordingly to mitigate challenges.
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