Topic: population and associated issues
1. What is depopulation? What are the reasons for declining fertility rates in the country? How can depopulation impact the country? (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India
Why the question:
Two weeks ago, when the world population touched 8 billion, several headlines focused on how India was the largest contributor to the last billion and is set to surpass China as the world’s most populous nation by 2023. China’s population has begun to decline, while India’s population is expected to grow for another 40 years, they said. But missing in this conversation is the real threat of depopulation that parts of India too face, and the country’s complete lack of preparedness to deal with it.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about depopulation, causes of falling TFR and the challenges it poses.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by defining depopulation.
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 and how they could be overcome.
Conclusion:
Conclude by suggesting solutions to the challenges.
