India’s Gigantic Population: Need For A Population Control Law

Dr. Nandini Raizada, Assistant Professor, Department of Law, C.M.P. Degree College, Prayagraj

ABSTRACT

India's population is projected to reach 1,428,627,663 individuals by 2023, accounting for 17.76% of the global population. Overpopulation in India can lead to negative consequences such as strain on resources, environmental degradation, overcrowding, healthcare and education, unemployment, underemployment, poverty, public services and infrastructure, increased healthcare burden, food security, social tensions, gender imbalances, and health challenges. The need for a population control bill in India is a contentious issue, with supporters arguing it is necessary to address various challenges associated with the country's large and growing population. Arguments in favour include resource scarcity, economic burden, and healthcare and education.

Population control laws and policies vary significantly from country to country, reflecting diverse demographic, cultural, and political contexts. The Population Control Bill, 2019 in India applies only to married couples with a boy under 21 years of age and a girl under 18. The Central Government ensures contraceptives are available at reasonable rates at all sub-health centers and establishes a National Population Stabilization Fund.

To implement population control laws or related policies in India, policymakers must carefully design and implement measures that balance various factors, including individual rights, cultural and social considerations, and demographic challenges. Essential elements include voluntary participation, universal access to family planning services, incentives and support, gender equality, education and awareness, respect for privacy and consent, improved healthcare access, robust data collection and monitoring, flexibility, ethical considerations, consultation and stakeholder involvement, and policy evaluation and review.

Keywords: Population control, Family planning, reproductive health services, overpopulation.