The Need for a Holistic Demographic Mission for India
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Indian Geography (Demographics, Migration); Indian Economy (Human Capital, Social Security, Demographic Dividend); Indian Polity and Governance.
Mains:
General Studies Paper 1 (Society): Population and associated issues; Poverty and developmental issues; Effects of globalization on Indian society; Regionalism.
General Studies Paper 2 (Social Justice & Governance): Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population; Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
General Studies Paper 3 (Economy): Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
Essay: A very likely topic on Demography, Migration, India's youth, or India's future challenges.
Key Highlights from the News
A comprehensive "holistic demographic mission" is needed to address India's changing demographics.
This mission should not be limited to population control or monitoring illegal immigration, but should focus on three main areas:
Human Capability: Ensuring equal infrastructure for education, health, and skill development in all parts of the country.
Internal Migration: Protecting the rights of migrant workers, especially the right to vote. Changing the situation where they are alienated in both their "home state" and "working state".
Longevity and Social Security: Rethinking old-age social security schemes as life expectancy increases.
In policymaking, beyond per capita figures, the actual demographic structure (age, gender, region) also needs to be considered.
The article concludes that demography is not just about numbers; it is the foundation for building a country's future.
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