Chandrababu Naidu Proposes Minimum Two-Child Rule for Local Body Elections

Politics Politics of India

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-04-03 08:47:08 |

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Chandrababu Naidu Proposes Minimum Two-Child Rule for Local Body Elections

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has sparked a debate by proposing that only individuals with more than two children be eligible to contest local body elections. This proposal, aimed at addressing the state's declining birth rate, marks a significant shift from the two-child norm that previously restricted candidates with more than two children from running for office.

Naidu voiced concerns over the shrinking younger population, emphasizing that smaller families and changing lifestyles could lead to long-term demographic challenges. He cited Japan and South Korea as examples of countries struggling with ageing populations due to low birth rates. He warned that India could face a similar crisis if proactive measures are not taken to encourage larger families.

Speaking in his native village, Naravaripalle, Naidu stressed the importance of increasing birth rates to sustain India's demographic advantage, which he believes will last only until 2047. He argued that incentivizing larger families is essential to ensure a balanced population structure. As part of this vision, he also hinted at policies such as increased subsidized rice for families with more children.

This policy shift has drawn mixed reactions, with some viewing it as an infringement on personal choices, while others see it as a strategic move to secure future workforce sustainability. His statements have also influenced political discussions in other states, with Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin echoing similar sentiments.

Naidu’s proposal marks a significant policy shift, aiming to reverse population decline and ensure long-term economic stability. Whether this rule gains legislative backing remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly ignited a crucial debate on population policies in India.