IN A STATE IN INDIA, A STATE GOVT WANT CITIZENS TO HAVE MORE CHILDREN, WITH CASH INCENTIVES ATTACHED TO THOSE WHO HAVE MORE CHILDREN. (PHOTO).

 N Chandrababu Naidu has announced fresh financial incentives for families having more children in Andhra Pradesh amid concerns over the state’s declining population growth.

Under the new scheme, the state government will provide ₹30,000 to families for a third child and ₹40,000 for a fourth child.

Naidu said the falling fertility rate in Andhra Pradesh has become a serious concern, adding that children should now be viewed as an important economic resource and national asset.

The Chief Minister has been actively advocating for larger families as the state’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has reportedly dropped to 1.5, well below the replacement level benchmark of 2.1.

The latest announcement expands earlier measures introduced by the government, including incentives for second children, free education for third children till the age of 18 and plans to establish fertility clinics.

Officials warned that if the declining population trend continues, nearly 23 percent of Andhra Pradesh’s population could be above 60 years of age by 2047.

The move has triggered nationwide discussion, with Andhra Pradesh emerging as one of the few states openly encouraging population growth through direct financial incentives.