On Kerala’s demographic transition

Kerala, which led India’s demographic transition by achieving a low fertility and mortality rate, is now facing the unintended consequence of an increasing maternal mortality ratio. The state’s declining birth rate, as a result of reaching the replacement level fertility, has created new challenges, including concerns over the future economic and social implications of an ageing population.

Key Dimensions of the Issue

• Impact of Low Fertility Rates on Maternal Mortality: Kerala's maternal mortality rate, once the best in the country, is now rising as the number of births decreases. The shift to a sub-replacement level fertility rate has resulted in fewer pregnancies, but also poses challenges to maternal health outcomes in the state.
• Demographic Transition and Population Decline: Kerala achieved total replacement level fertility in 1987-88, leading the southern states into a demographic transition. While this has improved health indicators, it has also raised political concerns regarding the future delimitation of Lok Sabha seats based on population size, with the southern states potentially losing out.
• Global Trends and Economic Challenges: Globally, countries like South Korea, which have experienced similar demographic transitions, are struggling with declining population growth. As the working-age population shrinks and the elderly population grows, governments face significant challenges in managing public finances, healthcare, and social support systems.

Solutions and Recommendations

• Strengthening Social Support Systems: To address the challenges posed by an ageing population, India, particularly Kerala, must focus on strengthening social security and healthcare systems. Policies to support elderly care and reduce the burden on the working population must be a priority for the future.
• Improving Healthcare Financing: Given the strain on resources due to an increasing elderly population, there needs to be a strategic focus on enhancing healthcare financing. This would involve increased investment in health infrastructure and ensuring adequate coverage for senior citizens.
• Encouraging Family and Work-Life Balance: Policy measures should also focus on ensuring gender equality in household responsibilities and promoting work-life balance. Incentives for childcare and the active participation of both genders in child-rearing can help address the demographic concerns while supporting the working-age population.

Practice Question:

Q. Kerala’s demographic transition, marked by declining fertility rates, has led to unintended consequences such as rising maternal mortality and concerns over a shrinking working-age population." Discuss the implications of Kerala’s demographic transition and suggest policy measures to address the economic and social challenges it poses.