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The Economic Times
The Economic Times
Jhanavi Pathak

India may face China’s problem before it reaches the Dragon's wealth

India is home to one of the world’s youngest populations. Yet the number of children being born has fallen to a level that could reshape the country's demographic future.

According to the Registrar General of India's Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2024, the country's total fertility rate (TFR) has dropped to 1.9 births per woman, below the replacement level of 2.1 needed for one generation to replace itself in the absence of migration. When fertility remains below that level for a prolonged period, the population gradually ages as fewer young people enter it and the share of older people rises.

Also read: India’s fertility rate falls below replacement level; highest in Bihar, lowest in Delhi

India, however, is entering this era at a much lower income level than China did.

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