The report highlights that the real issue is not people choosing to have fewer children, but that many are unable to have as many as they want. This is often due to financial stress, unstable jobs, high housing costs, and limited access to childcare and health services. For women, unequal household responsibilities and social expectations add to the challenge.
In India, the total fertility rate has fallen to 1.9—below the replacement level. States like Kerala and Delhi have lower fertility rates, while states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh continue to have higher ones. Many people in India point to financial struggles and lack of support as key reasons for having fewer children.
Globally, as more countries experience falling birth rates, UNFPA advises against using pressure or incentives to increase fertility. Instead, it recommends improving access to healthcare, supporting families, promoting gender equality, and ensuring people can make informed, voluntary choices about parenthood.
Download the full report to learn more.
TA is a Bhopal-based policy and development consulting group. We are on a mission to make the development space more inclusive and democratic for students and professionals. Join us on this mission.
