Why is there variation in India’s fertility rates?
GS1History · Society · Geography· Population, demography & migration· Prelims·
Demographic transition and regional disparities: a key GS1 topic for Indian Society.
Why in news
The Office of the Registrar General of India released the Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report of 2021, revealing India's Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has stabilized at 2.0.
Background
The SRS Statistical Report of 2021 shows India's TFR at 2.0. Regional data indicates Bihar has the highest TFR at 3.0, while West Bengal and Delhi report the lowest at 1.4.
Facts for Prelims
- FactIndia's Total Fertility Rate (TFR) as per SRS 2021: 2.0
- FactHighest TFR recorded in Bihar: 3.0
- FactLowest TFR recorded in West Bengal and Delhi: 1.4
- BodySample Registration System (SRS) reports are released by the Office of the Registrar General of India
Prelims practice question
With reference to India's Total Fertility Rate (TFR) as per the SRS 2021 report, consider the following statements:
- The state of Bihar recorded the highest TFR at 3.0.
- The state of West Bengal recorded a TFR of 2.5.
- India's Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has stabilized at 2.0.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)2 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 2 only
- (d)1 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1 and 3 only — Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: West Bengal and Delhi reported the lowest TFR at 1.4.
For Mains
Q. Analyze the factors contributing to regional disparities in Total Fertility Rates across Indian states and suggest measures to achieve demographic stability.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Demographic transition: Correlation between female literacy rates and declining TFR in urban clusters
- Regional inequality: Socio-economic disparities influencing reproductive health access in Bihar vs Delhi
- Policy friction: Balancing population control with reproductive rights and healthcare infrastructure
Keywords: Demographic Transition · Total Fertility Rate · Regional Disparity · Population Dynamics · Sample Registration System
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