Topic: population and associated issues
2. Evaluate the trends in the declining Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in India. Why is lower fertility rate and higher education rate among women not translating into paid jobs for women? (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Indian Express , Live Mint
Why the question:
The recently released National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) of 2019-2021 shows why. As per the survey, India’s total fertility rate now stands at 2. It was 3.2 at the turn of the century and 2.2 in 2015-2016, when the last such survey was done.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the causes of falling TFR and the challenges it poses. Also, to write about why despite low fertility and high education are not being translated into meaningful jobs.
Directive word:
Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgement about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidence. You must appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming an opinion here.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Briefly give context of India’s declining TFR.
Body:
First, write about the factors that have contributed to declining TFR are: Higher education, increased mobility, late marriage, financial independence among women and overall prosperity.
Next, possible challenges that the falling TFR may lead to. Write about its various aspects.
Next, write about why despite low fertility and more education still women are not taking up paid jobs – gender barriers, social barriers, skilling barriers etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward to address the above issues.
