Supporters of Modi are advocating for larger families in the context of India’s 1.4 billion population
Indian states and Hindu groups advocate for larger families in the face of population pressures and increasing youth unemployment.
Allies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in India are advocating for larger families, even as the nation’s population surpasses 1.4 billion and worries about youth unemployment grow.
While the United Nations anticipates that India’s population will keep rising for approximately four decades, reaching a peak of around 1.7 billion, there is a growing concern among policymakers and Hindu nationalist groups regarding declining birth rates.
During the government assessment period of 2019-21, India’s total fertility rate decreased to 2 children per woman, a reduction from 3.4 in 1992-93. The government states that a rate of 2.1 is necessary for the population to sustain itself.
The southern state of Andhra Pradesh has unveiled plans to provide financial incentives for families with more children.
The state government announced that families will receive a one-time payment of 30,000 rupees for having a third child and 40,000 rupees for a fourth child.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu remarked that the decreasing birth rates in various countries are leading to aging populations and resulting in economic strain.
“Previously, we dedicated significant efforts to family planning,” he stated. “In light of the new circumstances, we advocate for recognizing children as a valuable asset.”
The northeastern state of Sikkim has promoted larger families by providing incentives such as extended maternity leave, paternity leave, and financial assistance for in vitro fertilization.
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, a prominent Hindu organization associated with Modi’s ruling party, has expressed support for larger families.
“We often refer to India as a nation of youth … yet, gradually, the TFR is declining,” RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale informed reporters. “Demographic imbalances are likely to lead to tensions.”
In 2025, government data recorded India’s unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 and above at 3.1%. However, for the age group of 15 to 29, the rate was notably higher at 9.9%.
