People Must Be Treated As Capital: CM Naidu
Says India’s demographic advantage must be seen as a strategic asset
Vijayawada:Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has recommended to NITI Aayog in presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that it form a sub-group of states focused on population management.
“India must leverage its demographic dividend while addressing its future challenges, such as ageing and low fertility,” he emphasised at the 10th governing council meeting of the NITI Aayog on Saturday.
The AP Chief Minister sounded the warning bell saying India’s total fertility rate (TFR) of 1.54 is well below the replacement level, while life expectancy is rising.
Chandrababu Naidu declared: “Our country must urgently shape a proactive, balanced and inclusive population policy in light of India’s shifting demographics.
“India’s demographic advantage must be seen as a strategic asset during the Amrit Kaal. People must be treated as capital, requiring thoughtful investment, policy innovation, and inclusive planning,” the AP CM underlined.
In support of this agenda, he highlighted the key steps Andhra Pradesh has taken, including removal of the two-child norm for contesting local body elections, launch of “Talliki Vandanam” scheme to support mothers in securing their children’s education, and extension of maternity leave from 120 days to 180 days, along with removal of restrictions limiting welfare benefit to women with fewer than two children.
