Odisha’s present fertility rate is just 1.8 and it is expected to further reduce to 1.2 in 2036. This apart in three districts – Rayagada, Nabarangpur and Kandhamal — the demographic transition will be higher that is expected to exceed two, indicating a significant regional inequality in demographic transition by 2036, said noted educationist, Professor Amitabh Kundu at the Odisha Vikash Conclave 2023 organised on 7th December by CYSD in partnership with UNFPA.

Addressing the inaugural session of the Odisha Vikash Conclave 2023, Professor Kundu said government policies and schemes need to be aligned to tackle the challenges posed by demographic transition, with a greater emphasis on social security support. Demographic transition in Odisha, according to experts, began in 1992-93. The population growth rate in the state was below 10 per cent during the last decade (2011-2021). It has consistently declined compared to the national level. Previously, Odisha’s population, representing 4 per cent of India’s total, has now reduced to 3.5 per cent.

As the state’s aging population is projected to reach 17 per cent by 2036, the state has a unique opportunity to harness the potential arising from demographic transition, observed Shri Jagadananda, a noted social scientist and Co-founder of CYSD. “This dividend can be tapped in two ways: first, the Gender Dividend, which involves utilizing the untapped potential of the aging female population; and second, the Silver Dividend, which entails leveraging the knowledge and expertise of older individuals,” he added. Dr. R Balakrishnan, Chief Advisor at the Office of the Chief Minister, Odisha, mentioned that the state budget outlay has leaped from Rs 1 crore in 1936 to Rs 2 lakh crore now, indicating steady economic progress in the state. He underscored that Odisha’s development model is equity-based and inclusive, striving to reach the last mile individuals. Such a development model needs to be adopted nationwide. He promised to take forward the recommendations of the OVC to the appropriate level to transform them into action.

Ms. Andrea Wojnar, Country Head of the United Nations UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund), underscored that UNFPA will continue to support in conducting intensive research on new themes related to demography and development in India.

The OVC-2023 opening session was participated by 400 delegates comprising civil society leaders, government officials, think tanks, representatives from corporate houses, academicians, researchers, CBO leaders, PRI representatives and media representatives. The opening session was followed by six different thematic sessions and way forward sessions.

Akshay Kumar Sahoo
Deccan Chronicle.