The Unspoken Truth: Why Political Parties Ignore the Increasing Population in India
The increasing population in India, a main cause of numerous problems in the nation, remains a taboo topic in political conversations. Despite recognizing that it is the root cause of many societal issues, political parties continue to shy away from addressing it. This is primarily due to the fear of backlash and the potential harm to their political careers. Instead, they opt to focus on other issues, perpetuating a cycle of suffering among the populace.
The crux of the matter lies in the fact that politicians are acutely aware that if they bring up the population issue, they might face significant public scrutiny. Moreover, successfully tackling the adverse effects of population growth would require them to take drastic measures that could harm their political prospects. Consequently, the elephant in the room remains unaddressed, leaving the majority in a state of continuous difficulty.
The Demographic Dividend Mishmash
It's crucial to note that these political entities still hold on to the hope of the demographic dividend promised by Goldman Sachs in 2002. This belief has led to the postponement of comprehensive population management strategies. While politicians would undoubtedly be proactive in dealing with population growth if they perceived the urgency, the reality is far from it. People continue to suffer, and political parties focus on short-term gains rather than long-term solutions.
The Roots of Dysfunction
The base of all evils in our country can be attributed to the increasing population. This phenomenon has far-reaching consequences such as crime, poverty, health issues, and educational disparities. Essentially, people propagate large families to provide support in old age, exacerbating the problem further. Addressing this issue requires a holistic approach that tackles entrenched disadvantages such as caste-based biases, the legal system, and wealth distribution.
The Current Government’s Approach
There are signs that the present government might be taking steps to address the population issue, as evidenced by the possibility of bringing a related bill. However, this is just one side of the coin. The real challenge lies in the overall political framework and the lack of a cohesive strategy to manage population growth. The focus is similarly skewed towards appeasing communal elements, as demonstrated by the 2019 election results, which saw a clear segmentation of votes along communal lines.
A Collective Responsibility
Ultimately, addressing population growth is not solely the domain of political entities. The health and statistical departments play a crucial role, but the onus is also on the younger generation to take responsibility. Initiatives promoting awareness and offering incentives for smaller families can help alter societal norms. Marriages, a significant aspect of Indian culture, must also be part of the solution. It will undoubtedly be a challenging task to instigate such changes, but it is essential for long-term social and economic progress.
Addressing population growth is not just about reducing numbers; it's about fostering a sustainable and equitable society. The time has come for a collective effort to break the vicious cycle of disadvantage and pave the way for a better future for all Indians.