India's Demographic Dividend: Opportunities and Policies

Abstract

India, with its youthful population structure, stands at the cusp of a demographic dividend, a phenomenon where the proportion of the working-age population (typically aged 15-64) exceeds the non-working-age population. This provides the country with a potential boost in economic productivity and growth. The dividend originates from a decline in the total fertility rate, leading to fewer youth dependents and an enlarged workforce. This paper discusses several factors make this demographic dividend significant for India. We conclude that n while the demographic dividend offers India a unique window of opportunity for economic advancement, its realization is contingent on the nation's ability to implement effective policies and infrastructural changes. If managed appropriately, India could leverage its young population to propel itself into an era of sustained economic growth and prosperity.