Fertility rate measures the average number of children a woman is expected to have during her lifetime. It is a critical indicator of population growth trends.
In 2024, India's fertility rate stands at 1.98 children per woman, a significant decline from 5.73 in 1950. This marks India's transition toward population stabilization
India ranks among nations with fertility rates below the replacement level of 2.1, placing it in the middle tier globally. This is consistent with many developing nations experiencing similar trends
Urbanization and Education: Increased access to education and career opportunities for women. Healthcare Access: Better reproductive health services and contraceptive use.
Highest Fertility Rates: Niger (6.73 births per woman). India vs. Neighbors: India (1.98) fares lower than Pakistan (3.39) but aligns with Bangladesh (2.01)
Economic Opportunity: A declining fertility rate can lead to a "demographic dividend" by providing a larger workforce.