Tamil Nadu Faces Aging Society Amidst Low Birth Rates

Tamil Nadu's Total Fertility Rate (TFR) currently stands at 1.3, a figure well below the 2.1 replacement level necessary for maintaining population stability. This declining birth rate, as reported by Health Minister K.G. Arunraj, indicates a significant demographic shift. The state's TFR was 1.4 in 2025, and India's national TFR is 1.9 as of 2026.

The health minister highlighted that Tamil Nadu is progressively becoming an aging society. Currently, 16 out of every 100 individuals are aged over 60. Projections indicate that within the next decade, one in five people will be over 60. The minister suggested that economic factors and other underlying issues contribute to this trend.

Addressing these root causes, rather than solely relying on childbirth incentives, is considered the appropriate approach. The government is also implementing schemes like one-year maternity leave, two-month paternity leave, and free education for children. The minister stressed the importance of childbirths occurring in healthcare institutions and ensuring adequate spacing between pregnancies for maternal and child well-being.

He further emphasized the role of men in sharing family responsibilities to support women, particularly those who are part of the 41% of working women in the country from Tamil Nadu. The minister advocated for a societal understanding that childbirth can impact women's career futures, underscoring the equal responsibility of men and women in family planning.