Andhra Pradesh Government Proposes Financial Incentives for Families with More Children
The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, has announced a new initiative aimed at increasing the state's declining birth rate. The government is considering providing ₹25,000 to parents who have a second child as part of a broader population management policy. Additionally, discussions are underway regarding restricting social media access for children under 13. This policy aims to encourage larger families in a state where a significant percentage of households currently have only one child. The announcement aligns with similar measures being considered in neighboring Karnataka.
| Mar 6, 2026, 16:24 IST
New Initiative to Boost Birth Rate in Andhra Pradesh
The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, has made a significant announcement aimed at increasing the state's population. He revealed that the government is considering providing a financial incentive of ₹25,000 to parents who have a second child. After taking office, Naidu noted the declining population in the southern region, emphasizing the need to encourage larger families. On Thursday, he stated that this initiative is part of the government's efforts to address the falling birth rate.
Naidu mentioned that the government is contemplating financial assistance for couples who choose to have a second child. Additionally, he suggested implementing a ban on social media access for children under the age of 13, ensuring that this demographic remains protected from online exposure. Discussions are ongoing regarding whether the age limit should be set at 13 or 16 years, with a decision to be made if there is consensus.
Proposed Population Management Policy
In the meantime, Chief Minister Naidu has indicated that the state is working on a new population management policy that includes financial incentives to encourage families to have more children. He announced that parents of a second or third child would receive ₹25,000 at the time of delivery. During a session in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly, Naidu presented the proposed policy, highlighting that currently, about 58% of families have only one child, while approximately 2.17 lakh families have two children, and around 62 lakh families have three or more.
He also pointed out that nearly three lakh families have only one child instead of two, while another three lakh families have more than two children. To tackle this issue, the government is proposing financial incentives to promote childbirth. Similarly, in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced a ban on social media for children under 16 during the presentation of the state budget for 2026-27.