Q. Will the ageing population be a problem in India? If not, what are the problems you foresee in the age structure of the Indian population?
Ans: India is undergoing a demographic transition, with its elderly population (60+ years) projected to double from 10.5% in 2022 to over 20% by 2050. While ageing itself is not inherently problematic, it poses multi-dimensional challenges if not addressed through proactive policy and institutional reforms.
Why Ageing May Not Be a Problem
- India still enjoys a demographic dividend, with a large working-age population until the 2040s.
- The ageing process is gradual, allowing time for policy adaptation.
- Opportunities exist in the silver economy, geriatric healthcare, and intergenerational knowledge transfer.
Problems in India’s Age Structure
1. Rising Old-Age Dependency Ratio
- Increased burden on working-age population to support retirees.
- Pressure on pension systems, healthcare, and social security.
2. Feminisation and Ruralisation of Ageing
- Majority of elderly are women, often widowed and economically dependent.
- Over 70% of elderly reside in rural areas, with limited access to services.
3. Shrinking Youth Cohort
- Declining fertility rates mean fewer children and youth.
- Impacts school enrolment, future workforce size, and innovation potential.
4. Regional Imbalances
- Southern and western states ageing faster than northern ones.
- May lead to political and fiscal tensions over representation and resource allocation.
In conclusion, ageing is a manageable transition if India invests in inclusive elder care, health infrastructure, and intergenerational equity. The real challenge lies in balancing age cohorts to ensure sustainable development.
Read: OPSC Notes