Andhra Pradesh Introduces New Population Management Policy to Boost Fertility Rates

Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has introduced a draft population management policy aimed at increasing the state's fertility rate. The initiative includes a financial incentive for couples having a third child, along with free education for that child until age 18. Naidu highlighted the urgency of addressing declining birth rates and the implications of an aging population. The policy will undergo public consultation before its implementation on April 1, and it also proposes extended parental leave and support for those facing fertility issues. This comprehensive approach aims to secure the demographic future of the state.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 8, 2026, 15:23 IST

New Policy Aims to Increase Fertility Rates

On Thursday, N Chandrababu Naidu, the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, announced a draft policy focused on population management, which includes a financial incentive of Rs 25,000 for couples who choose to have a third child.

Naidu emphasized the urgency of this initiative, stating, “With a significant decline in fertility rates, immediate action is necessary to secure our demographic future.”

The proposed policy also guarantees free education for the third child until the age of 18 in either public or residential schools.

The Chief Minister aims to elevate the state's fertility rate from the current 1.5 to the ideal 2.1, which is essential for maintaining demographic stability.

During his address in the Legislative Assembly, Naidu pointed out the challenges posed by a decreasing birth rate and an aging population, warning that by 2047, approximately 23% of the population could be elderly if current fertility trends continue.

“At present, around 58% of families have only one child, about 2.17 lakh families have two children, and nearly 62 lakh families have three or more children,” Naidu stated. He also noted that around three lakh families have only one child instead of the recommended two, while another three lakh families have more than two children.

The policy will be made available for public consultation for one month before it is finalized and set to take effect on April 1, according to the Chief Minister.

Additionally, the policy proposes extending maternal leave to 12 months and paternal leave to two months. It also includes the launch of the “Poshana – Shiksha – Suraksha” package, aimed at ensuring nutrition, education, and protection for every child.

Naidu further mentioned that the government will assist those facing fertility challenges by establishing in-vitro fertilization centers in public hospitals.