India’s rapid economic growth has significantly influenced its demographic patterns, urbanisation trends, and regional socio-economic disparities.
Demographic Changes
- Fertility Rates: India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has declined from 5.6 in 1971 to 2.0 in 2023, just below the replacement level of 2.1.
This decline is attributed to government-backed family planning programs initiated in 1952, effectively reducing the birth rate from 44.26 per 1,000 people in 1951 to 16.15 per 1,000 in 2023.
- Mortality Rates: Significant improvements in healthcare have led to decreased mortality rates. The infant mortality rate dropped from approximately 137.9 per 1,000 live births in 1970 to 25.5 per 1,000 in 2022.
Similarly, the maternal mortality rate decreased from 498 per 100,000 live births in 1990 to 103 per 100,000 by 2020.
Life expectancy at birth has increased from 48.2 years in 1970 to 67.2 years in 2021, though regional disparities persist, with life expectancy ranging from 63 years in Assam to 75 years in Kerala.
Urbanisation
- Rural-Urban Migration: Economic development has spurred urbanisation, with a growing proportion of the population relocating to urban areas in search of better employment opportunities. This migration, coupled with natural population growth, has led to the expansion of towns and cities. Despite this trend, India’s urbanisation level remains below the global average.
Age and Gender Dynamics
- Gender Inequality: Development has contributed to narrowing the gender gap, though challenges remain. Between 2001 and 2022, the female literacy rate improved from 47.84% to 69.1%, outpacing male literacy growth.
However, disparities persist in health, economic participation, political representation, and access to finance. For instance, only one-third of working-age women in India are employed, compared to two-thirds in Brazil, and women constitute just 12% of the Indian parliament as of 2015.
- Marginalised Groups: Gender inequality is particularly pronounced among marginalised communities, such as tribal populations and lower castes. Additionally, older individuals often feel excluded from the benefits of economic progress, primarily due to limited access to recent advancements in education and healthcare and a higher likelihood of residing in rural areas.
Regional Disparities
- Economic Variations: GDP per capita shows significant variation across Indian states. The national average is US$2,366, yet the economically dominant areas, or core regions, report GDP per capita levels substantially above this mean. Sikkim exceeded the national average by US$5,187. In contrast, the less developed areas, known as periphery regions, have GDP per capita figures that fall below the national average, such as Bihar, which fell short by US$1,647.
These economic disparities are mirrored in other socio-economic indicators. In 2011, literacy rates ranged from 94% in Kerala to 64% in Bihar, with female literacy highest in Kerala and lowest in Rajasthan at 53%. Life expectancy also varies, from 63 years in Assam to 75 years in Kerala, highlighting differences in education and healthcare access.
In summary, India’s economic growth has led to notable demographic shifts, increased urbanisation, and pronounced regional socio-economic disparities. While progress is evident, ongoing efforts are essential to address the remaining challenges and ensure inclusive development.
