From Boom to Bust: Unpacking India’s Fertility Decline

As the world grapples with shifting demographics, India stands at the epicentre of a profound transformation. This research delves into the intricate interplay of culture, fertility, and policy, dissecting the enigma of declining Total Fertility Rates (TFRs). Global trends are juxtaposed with the Indian context. The paper challenges the validity of Malthusian principles and explores the multifaceted causes behind India’s dwindling fertility rates. Consequences ripple across generations: an aging populace, labour shortages, and an impending birth crisis. Drawing insights from international experiences, the paper proposes tailored policy interventions. It advocates for the adoption of a nationwide Two-Child Policy in states with TFRs nearing or exceeding 2.0, while recommending a Three-Child Policy to promote sustainable growth in regions where rates fall below 1.0. As India navigates through this intricate terrain, the pursuit of equilibrium emerges as the overarching goal a future where cultural heritage, fertility aspirations, and pragmatic policy converge harmoniously.