Population Studies

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option c

Explanation
Option (c) is correct: Population momentum is a demographic phenomenon where a population continues to grow despite a decline in fertility rates. This occurs due to the age structure of the population, particularly when a large proportion of people are in the reproductive age group. Even if fertility rates drop to replacement levels, the sheer number of young individuals ensures that births continue to outnumber deaths for several decades.

Population momentum is a result of past high fertility rates, which created a large base of young individuals. These individuals, as they enter their reproductive years, contribute to continued population growth even if each couple has fewer children. The United Nations Population Division and the Census of India also highlight this trend, noting that countries with a youthful population structure, such as India, will experience population momentum for years even as fertility rates decline.