Costs, careers and choice: Why Indians are having fewer children (opens original article in a new tab)

India's fertility rate has fallen below the replacement level as more people prioritize careers, face high living costs, and have access to contraception, leading to fewer children. Some states offer financial incentives to encourage larger families.

• India's total fertility rate dropped to 1.9 children per woman, below the 2.1 replacement level
• Many young Indians choose fewer children due to career focus, education, and high living costs
• Government incentives in some states aim to boost birthrates but experts suggest addressing underlying reasons for low fertility
• Improved access to contraceptives and healthcare contribute to declining birthrates