The growth of population has become a significant and pressing problem in the modern world. This issue has been studied and debated for centuries, with scholars like Malthus drawing attention to the potential consequences of unchecked population growth. As per Malthus's theory, population increases geometrically, while food supply increases arithmetically. This mismatch between population growth and resource availability could lead to dire consequences, such as wars, famines, and pestilences, acting as positive checks to control population. However, his theory may not be entirely applicable to developed countries, as their economic advancements have helped stabilize their population growth. Nevertheless, for developing countries, the population has been increasing at a rapid rate, leading to severe poverty and numerous challenges.
Over the centuries, the world's population has witnessed a remarkable increase. From about 465 million in 1650, it surpassed 4,500 million in 1962. According to estimates by the UN Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA), the world's population was projected to reach 6,459 million by the end of the twentieth century. In India, the population has been growing rapidly as well. In 1981, it stood at around 684 crores, and by 1991, it had already surpassed 843 crores. Crossing the one billion mark by the turn of the century, India faced the challenges of supporting such a vast population with limited land and resources.
The rapid growth of population poses a serious obstacle to the economic development of a country. India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, once remarked that India's population problem was not just one problem but 400 million problems. The growth achieved in national income is negated by the ever-increasing population. Therefore, the stabilization of the population becomes an urgent necessity.
The World Development Report of 1985 emphasized the need for a "war on poverty" to be a simultaneous "war on population." Failure to control the population explosion would result in a bleak future for the nation. It is crucial to understand the reasons behind the rapid population growth in India to devise effective solutions.
Several factors contribute to the high population growth rate in India. Poverty plays a significant role, as larger families are often seen as a way to earn more money, especially when living conditions are challenging. Illiteracy is another key factor, as a lack of education and awareness about family planning can hinder progress in population control. Additionally, some religious authorities discourage family planning practices, believing that limiting the number of children goes against the commands of God. Advancements in medical technology have also significantly reduced the death rate, leading to higher population growth.
In response to this challenge, India launched its official family planning program in 1952. The government focused on raising awareness about the necessity of family planning and popularized various contraceptives. Efforts were made to increase the age for marriage to 18 for girls and 21 for boys. Despite these initiatives, the country has not been entirely successful in curbing population growth. During the Emergency period, coercion was used to sterilize people, leading to widespread unpopularity of the Congress government.
However, persuasion and education remain the most effective means to control population growth. Indians need to realize that family planning is indispensable for the country's economic development. Even for those whose religious beliefs forbid abortion or sterilization, alternative methods like the Rhythm Method can be followed to reduce natality. The government must continue its efforts to improve the standard of living for the masses, as better living conditions can positively influence population control.
The consequences of uncontrolled population growth are significant not only for India but also for Asia as a whole. If the population is not stabilized, famine, pestilence, political discontent, and revolutions could become more frequent and severe. This cautionary message by Aldous Huxley underscores the urgency of addressing the population challenge.
In conclusion, the growth of population is a complex and multifaceted issue that demands attention and action. While developed countries may have achieved some level of population stability, developing nations like India continue to grapple with the challenges posed by rapid population growth. By raising awareness, implementing effective family planning measures, and improving living conditions, India can work towards a more sustainable population growth rate and pave the way for economic and social development.