SSC CGL DEST Previous Year – Population & Development

India is the most populous country in the world, having overtaken China in 2023. The country's population of 1.4 billion is both a challenge and an opportunity. On one hand, a large population means greater demand for food, water, energy, housing and other resources. It puts pressure on the environment and on government services. On the other hand, a large and young workforce can drive economic growth and innovation, provided that people are educated, skilled and healthy. Population management is an important aspect of development planning. The Total Fertility Rate in India has declined significantly over the decades, from around 6 children per woman in the 1950s to below 2 today. This decline is due to improvements in female literacy, access to family planning services and rising aspirations. However, the fertility rate varies widely across states and social groups. States in the south and west have achieved replacement level fertility, while some states in the north still have higher fertility rates. The Government has been promoting voluntary family planning through the National Family Health Programme. Access to contraceptive services and information about family planning have been expanded. Maternal and child health services have been strengthened. Female literacy and education have been promoted as key strategies for reducing fertility. The Integrated Child Development Services programme provides nutrition, health and education services to young children and mothers. Ensuring that every child has access to quality education and healthcare is essential for realising the demographic dividend.