Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced a new financial incentive scheme aimed at encouraging families to have more children, in response to concerns over the state’s declining population growth.
Under the new plan, the state government will provide ₹30,000 to families on the birth of a third child and ₹40,000 for a fourth child. The announcement was made during a public address, where Naidu said the government is worried about falling birth rates and their long-term social and economic impact.
The Chief Minister said the initiative is part of a broader effort to maintain a balanced population structure in the state. He pointed out that many families are now choosing to have only one or two children, which could lead to demographic challenges in the future.
According to the government, the incentives will be given directly after the birth of the child. Officials are expected to release detailed guidelines on eligibility and implementation in the coming weeks.
Naidu also highlighted that population decline is not just a local issue but a wider concern seen in several regions. He said that if birth rates continue to fall, it could affect workforce availability, economic growth, and long-term development planning.
The announcement marks a shift in policy direction, as the state moves from traditional population control measures to encouraging larger families. The government believes this approach will help stabilise population trends and support future development needs.
The proposal has sparked discussion among policy observers, as India continues to balance population management with economic planning. While supporters see it as a proactive step to address declining fertility rates, others are expected to closely watch its implementation and impact.
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