About
- Jiyo Parsi Scheme is a Central Sector Scheme launched in 2013-14 by the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
- It aims to arrest the population decline of the Parsis, a minority community in India.
- It focuses on stabilizing and increasing the Parsi population through scientific protocols and structured interventions.
Features of the Scheme
- Financial support for infertility treatments and related medical care in empanelled hospitals.
- Assistance for childcare and support for elderly Parsis.
- Programs to raise awareness and encourage participation within the Parsi community.
Target Groups
- Parsi married couples of childbearing age needing assistance.
- Young adults and adolescents in the Parsi community for disease detection, with parental/legal guardian consent.
Significance of the scheme
- This scheme has successfully facilitated the birth of over 400 Parsi children.
- It preserves the cultural heritage and identity of the Parsi community.
- It ensures the long-term sustainability of the community in India.
- It demonstrates government commitment to supporting minority communities and promoting diversity.
Factors Driving Population Growth in India
Fertility Rates
- Fertility rates are a key driver of population growth. In India, the fertility rate has decreased significantly over the past few decades.
- In the 1950s, the average Indian woman had about six children. Today, this number has dropped to around 2.0 children per woman. This decline is due to increased access to family planning, better education, and improved healthcare.
- States like Kerala and Tamil Nadu have seen a sharp decline in fertility rates due to effective family planning programs and higher literacy rates among women.
Mortality Rates (Life Expectancy)
- Life expectancy in India has improved significantly, contributing to population growth. Better healthcare, nutrition, and living conditions have led to longer lives. The average life expectancy in India is now around 70 years.
- In states like Kerala, life expectancy is higher due to better healthcare infrastructure and social development programs.
Initial Age Profile
- India has a young population, with approximately 50% of its people under the age of 25. This youthful demographic means that a large number of people are entering their reproductive years, which drives population growth.
- The median age in India is 28, compared to 38 in the United States and 39 in China.
Migration
- Internal migration within India also affects population growth. People move from rural areas to urban centres in search of better opportunities, which can lead to population increases in cities.
- Cities like Mumbai and Delhi have seen significant population growth due to rural-to-urban migration.
Socioeconomic Factors
- Economic development, education, and women’s empowerment are key factors influencing population growth. As more women gain access to education and employment, fertility rates tend to decline.
- In urban areas, where education and employment opportunities are more accessible, fertility rates are generally lower.
Challenges of Population Growth in India
India’s rapid population growth presents several challenges that impact various aspects of society.
Resource Strain
- As the population increases, the demand for essential resources like water, food, and energy also rises. This can lead to shortages and increased competition for these resources.
- In many parts of India, water scarcity is a pressing issue. Cities like Chennai have experienced severe water shortages, affecting millions of residents.
Healthcare System Pressure
- A growing population puts immense pressure on the healthcare system.
- More people mean a higher demand for medical services, which can put pressure on existing healthcare infrastructure.
Education Challenges
- Providing quality education to a large and growing population is another major challenge.
- Overcrowded classrooms, insufficient educational facilities, and a shortage of qualified teachers can hinder the delivery of effective education.
- In rural areas, schools often lack basic infrastructure and resources, making it difficult for children to receive a proper education.
Employment and Economic Growth
- A rapidly growing population can lead to high unemployment rates, especially if economic growth does not keep pace with population growth. This can result in increased poverty and social unrest.
- Despite India’s economic growth, unemployment remains a significant issue, particularly among the youth. Many young people struggle to find jobs that match their skills and qualifications.
Urbanization and Infrastructure
- Rapid population growth often leads to urbanization, with more people moving to cities in search of better opportunities. This can strain urban infrastructure, leading to issues like traffic congestion, inadequate housing, and pollution.
- Mumbai, one of India’s largest cities, faces significant challenges related to overcrowding, traffic congestion, and pollution. The city’s infrastructure struggles to keep up with the growing population.
