India's Fertility Rate Falls Below Replacement, Stagnation Nears

• India's population is nearing stagnation as fertility rates fall below the replacement level of 2.1.
• The national Total Fertility Rate (TFR) is projected to drop to 1.73 by 2031-2035.
• Most Indian states are expected to have TFRs below the replacement level by 2035, indicating an aging population.
• Bihar is the only state projected to maintain a TFR above the replacement level, at 2.38 by 2035.
• Factors contributing to declining fertility include health issues, economic pressures, lack of childcare, housing constraints, and future uncertainties.

Why It Matters: Falling fertility rates will lead to India's population aging and stagnation.