The government of Andhra Pradesh has made a significant change by revoking the long-standing two-child policy that barred individuals with more than two children from contesting local body elections. This decision aims to tackle the state's declining fertility rate and increasing aging population.
Initially introduced in the 1990s, the two-child policy was aimed at controlling population growth. The policy, which was implemented in 1994, disallowed individuals with more than two children from participating in local elections. It was a response to the rapid population increase observed between 1981 and 1991.
Andhra Pradesh's decision to repeal this policy stems from concerns regarding its aging demographic and low Total Fertility Rate (TFR). Currently, the TFR in Andhra Pradesh stands at 1.5, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2.1. This decline raises concerns about long-term productivity and demographic balance.
The repeal of the two-child policy signifies a shift in India's approach to population management. It moves away from strict population control measures towards addressing the challenges posed by an aging population. Similar rollbacks have been observed in other states like Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, indicating a broader trend across the country.
While the two-child policy had some success in reducing birth rates, it also led to unintended consequences. Issues such as skewed sex ratios and the disenfranchisement of various groups emerged, prompting states to reassess the relevance of such policies. The decision to repeal the policy could foster higher birth rates in Andhra Pradesh and highlight the need for more balanced demographic strategies.
This move aligns with the National Population Policy of 2000, which emphasizes reproductive rights and the importance of sustainable population growth. By repealing the two-child policy, Andhra Pradesh acknowledges the need for policies that balance population growth with the realities of an aging society.
Q1. What is the two-child policy in the context of local body elections?
Answer: The two-child policy prohibited individuals with more than two children from contesting local body elections, introduced in Andhra Pradesh in 1994 to control population growth.
Q2. Why was this policy introduced initially?
Answer: The policy was implemented to control rising population figures between 1981 and 1991, discouraging larger families and adopted by several states for local governance.
Q3. Why did Andhra Pradesh repeal the policy?
Answer: The repeal was due to concerns about the aging population and low Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 1.5, lower than the national average, raising fears of demographic challenges.
Q4. What does the repeal signify about India's population policies?
Answer: The repeal reflects a shift from population control to addressing aging populations and maintaining demographic balance, mirroring actions in other states.
Q5. How has the two-child policy impacted states that adopted it?
Answer: Although it reduced birth rates, it led to negative outcomes like skewed sex ratios and disenfranchisement, prompting reconsideration of its relevance.
Question 1: What was the primary aim of the two-child policy in Andhra Pradesh?
A) To promote larger families
B) To control population growth
C) To increase local governance
D) To improve sex ratios
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What is the current Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of Andhra Pradesh?
A) 2.5
B) 1.5
C) 2.1
D) 1.0
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: In which year was the two-child policy introduced in Andhra Pradesh?
A) 1990
B) 1994
C) 2000
D) 1981
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What demographic challenge prompted the repeal of the two-child policy?
A) High birth rates
B) Aging population
C) Increased immigration
D) Youth bulge
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: How does the repeal of the two-child policy align with national policies?
A) It contradicts the National Population Policy
B) It emphasizes reproductive rights
C) It ignores demographic changes
D) It restricts family planning
Correct Answer: B
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