Population

Will India begin census process next year? Will caste be included?

The Centre will reportedly start the census exercise next year, with the data being published in 2026. This could also pave the way for the delimitation process. But will the census include caste enumeration?

Quicksplained | China’s shrinking kindergartens: What’s behind the decline?

China is seeing a sharp drop in kindergarten numbers, with 14,808 closures in 2023 alone, as the country’s birth rate hits record lows. Enrollment has fallen by over 11 per cent, highlighting a demographic crisis as fewer children are born and the population ages

Amid declining population, China launches survey to understand 'fear of having children'

China’s National Health Commission survey aims to analyse ‘reluctance and fear surrounding having children’ and ultimately provide fertility support and incentive measures

World Contraception Day: Why a booming contraceptive market is essential to prevent a population explosion

As we observe World Contraception Day, the growing contraceptive market plays a crucial role in ensuring that every pregnancy is planned and desired highlighting the urgent need for accessible family planning services to manage population growth

China is raising its retirement age for the first time in over 70 years: Why?

China is set to raise its retirement age for the first time since the 1950s, a move driven by its rapidly ageing population and strained pension system. Beginning in 2025, retirement ages will gradually increase for both men and women, with the aim of easing pressure on the shrinking workforce

Women in Indian Politics: A story that has changed little over the years

Making just 13.63 per cent of the elected strength, the 18th Lok Sabha will comprise only 74 women compared to 469 men, even lower than the previous House

This Week in Explainers: Can Arvind Kejriwal fulfil his CM duties now that he is out on bail?

After 51 days in jail, Arvind Kejriwal received interim bail. But he has many restrictions imposed on him. We explain what they are and talk about the other big newsmakers like Sam Pitroda in our weekly wrap

Has share of Hindu population in India declined, Muslims increased? A look at the PM-EAC report and the controversy

A new study by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (PM-EAC) on the religious composition of populations in 167 countries reveals that the share of the Hindu population in India has dipped by 7.82 per cent between 1950 and 2015, while the Muslim share saw a 43.15 per cent rise. We take a look at the findings and how they have triggered a political slugfest between the BJP and its rivals

Canada records its fastest population growth in 66 years: Why it matters

Canada has added 1.27 million people in 2023, up 3.2 per cent from the previous year, marking the highest growth since 1957. The surge is primarily caused by temporary immigration

In Graphics | China’s population policies throughout the years

China population fell for a second straight year in 2023. It also saw a record-low birth rate of 6.39 per 1,000 people last year. The country has been reporting a drop in birth rates for decades as a result of its controversial one-child policy implemented from 1980 to 2015