Phase IFoundation
Background
Overview
UPSC frequently asks about India's demographic profile, its challenges and opportunities, and its potential impact on economic growth, social development, and international relations (e.g., labor migration).
Demographic transition refers to the shift from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates as a country develops. A demographic dividend occurs when a country's working-age population (15-64 years) is larger than its dependent population (children and elderly), creating a window of opportunity for economic growth.