The total fertility rate in India has fallen below the replacement level, reflecting changing societal values, economic pressures, and the impact of education and career aspirations on family planning.
Bengaluru, India – The decision to remain child-free is becoming increasingly common among young couples in India, as exemplified by Nidhi Agarwal, a 41-year-old public relations professional. After marrying nine years ago, Agarwal and her partner chose to prioritize their careers over starting a family. “Before marriage, we spoke about finances and our career goals,” Agarwal stated. This sentiment is echoed by many in India, where societal pressures to have children are now being weighed against personal aspirations and economic considerations.
According to the latest data from the Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report, India’s total fertility rate (TFR) has dropped to 1.9 children per woman, below the replacement level of 2.1 that is necessary to maintain the current population size. This marks a significant decline from the TFR of approximately 3.3 in the early 2000s. The report, released last month by the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, highlights a trend that has been ongoing for several years, with increasing numbers of young couples opting for fewer children or none at all.
Factors Driving the Decline
Experts attribute the falling birthrate to several factors, including improved access to education and contraceptive methods, alongside the rising costs associated with raising children. Jyotsna Mirlay, a consultant gynecologist in Bengaluru, noted that many young women today feel less compelled by traditional societal narratives that emphasize marriage and motherhood. “Higher levels of education and globalization have empowered women, giving them the choice to decide whether to have children,” she explained.
Shweta Luthra, a 41-year-old human rights lawyer, reflects on her own experience, stating that while she initially aimed to focus on her career, circumstances led her to become a mother earlier than expected. “I wanted to study more and travel the world, but financial constraints played a role in my decision to have a child,” she said. This highlights a broader trend: many couples are now considering their financial stability and career trajectories when making family planning decisions.
The Economic Landscape
The economic context further complicates these personal choices. India is currently grappling with inflation, which has risen to 3.48% as of April, according to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The International Monetary Fund notes that the average annual income in India was approximately $2,878 in 2025, translating to just under $240 per month. However, the cost of living, according to Numbeo, exceeds this amount, with estimated monthly expenses around 27,664.7 rupees ($290.40), not including rent.
Roopa, a 36-year-old team leader at a large electronics firm, articulated a common concern among her peers: “Most of us want to provide our children with a good quality of life, including proper education and opportunities for the future,” she said. As living costs rise, many young Indians are delaying or reconsidering their choices about parenthood.
Changing Social Norms
As social norms evolve, there is also a notable trend of women opting to freeze their eggs to delay motherhood until they feel more secure in their careers. Maria, a 38-year-old freelance makeup artist, noted that this option has provided many women with the freedom to pursue their professional goals without the immediate pressure of motherhood. “It’s great that egg freezing has become more acceptable and accessible,” she said.
The decline in infant mortality rates may also be influencing family planning decisions. According to the SRS report, infant deaths fell from 30 per 1,000 live births in 2019 to 24 in 2024. Experts have historically observed that as infant mortality decreases, the urge to have larger families diminishes. In India, states with lower levels of education and higher infant mortality rates, such as Bihar, report higher fertility rates, while Delhi, with better education and health outcomes, has the lowest TFR at 1.2.
Government Response
In light of the declining birthrate, some Indian states are attempting to encourage higher fertility rates through financial incentives. For instance, Andhra Pradesh is offering monetary benefits for couples who have more than two children. However, experts like Dr. Mirlay argue that the government should focus on understanding the reasons behind the decision to have fewer children rather than merely promoting higher birth rates. “When couples decide to have children, it’s an informed decision, and external incentives are unlikely to change their minds,” she stated.
Agarwal reflects on societal perceptions surrounding childlessness, stating, “I still face scrutiny regarding my decision not to have children. People often speculate about my health or question our choices.” This illustrates the ongoing societal challenges that those opting for child-free lives encounter. Agarwal advocates for a cultural shift towards respecting individual reproductive choices and acknowledges that societal acceptance will take time.
As India navigates these demographic changes, the interplay of economic pressures, educational advancements, and shifting social norms will continue to shape the landscape of family planning in the country. The conversation surrounding parenthood is evolving, indicating a significant transformation in how younger generations perceive family and career.
