The country's population dropped by 3.39 million to 1.405 billion, while the total number of births dropped to 7.92 million in 2025.
- This phenomenon called the “Demographic Winter” is no longer restricted to developed nations but is increasingly becoming a global reality with profound implications for the 21st century economy and social structure.
What is Demographic Winter?
- Meaning: It describes a demographic phase characterized by a persistent and structural decline in population growth.
- Key indicators include:
- Birth Rates below the Replacement rate of fertility (2.1)
- Inverted Population Pyramid (shrinking, aging population with a narrow base of young people and a wider top of older adults).
Reasons for Demographic Winter
- Delayed Milestones: Career aspirations and economic pressures are leading individuals to delay marriage and parenthood.
- Urbanization: Urban living spaces are smaller and more expensive, further discouraging large families
- Societal & Cultural Shifts: Increasing female participation in the workforce and a shift toward smaller family norms
- Access to Family Planning: Individuals have more control over family size.
- Legacy Policies: E.g., One Child Policy in China.
Way Ahead to deal with Demographic Winter
- Pro-Natalist policies: Through financial incentives and parental leaves.
- Adapting to the 'Silver Economy': investing in healthcare and pension reforms.
- Economic Structural Reforms: Addressing the "cost of living" crisis to make family-building a viable choice for young professionals.
- Technological Integration: Using AI and Automation to maintain industrial productivity despite a shrinking human workforce.
- Global Migration Governance: Developing collaborative migration policies that allow countries with labor surpluses to support those facing demographic winters.
