Declining Fertility in India: Rising Costs and Changing Priorities Fuel Shift

India's Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has dropped to 1.9 children per woman, falling below the replacement level of 2.1. This marks a significant demographic shift driven by rising living expenses, career aspirations, and evolving social norms. Urbanization and increased access to education, particularly for women, are key factors influencing family size decisions. The trend reflects broader global patterns where economic pressures and lifestyle choices lead to smaller families.