What are the costs of population decline? The Hindu Explains

The Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu are concerned about low fertility rates in their states, leading to an ageing population. Southern states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala have seen a sharp decrease in fertility rates, which could result in a rise in health expenses. As the elderly population grows, the economic impact could be significant, with states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu already experiencing an ageing crisis. Increasing fertility rates may reduce women’s participation in the labor force, impacting the economy. The uneven population growth could also affect political representation in Parliament. Solutions being considered include pro-natalist policies and changes in work-family policies to maintain sustainable fertility rates.