Background Context
The one-child policy, implemented in China from 1979 to 2015, was a drastic measure aimed at curbing rapid population growth. Its roots lie in the post-Mao era, where concerns about resource scarcity and economic development led to the policy's adoption. Prior to this, Mao Zedong encouraged large families, viewing population size as a source of strength. The shift towards population control was driven by economic reforms and the desire to modernize. The policy was enforced through various means, including incentives, penalties, and sometimes coercive measures. While it is credited with contributing to economic growth by reducing the dependency ratio, it also led to severe demographic imbalances, including a skewed sex ratio and an aging population. The long-term consequences are now becoming increasingly apparent, influencing China's economic and social landscape.
Current Developments
Beyond the immediate birth rate decline, China is grappling with a rapidly aging workforce and increasing pension burdens. Recent adjustments to the retirement age are being considered to alleviate pressure on the social security system. Furthermore, the government is actively promoting policies to encourage larger families, including financial incentives, improved childcare facilities, and relaxed housing policies. However, these measures have yet to significantly reverse the declining birth rate. The shift away from manufacturing towards a more service-oriented economy may also be impacted by the shrinking workforce. Experts predict that India's population will continue to surpass China's in the coming years, potentially altering the global economic balance.
Practice MCQs
Question 1
Consider the following statements regarding the demographic challenges faced by China:
1. The number of people aged 60 and above reached 310 million by the end of 2024.
2. The birth rate in 2025 experienced a 17% increase compared to 2024.
3. The one-child policy, implemented between 1979 and 2015, is a significant contributing factor to the current demographic trends.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct as the number of people aged 60 and above reached 310 million by the end of 2024. Statement 3 is also correct as the one-child policy is a major factor. Statement 2 is incorrect as the birth rate declined by 17%.
Question 2
In the context of China's declining population, which of the following factors contributed to the implementation of the one-child policy?
1. Concerns about resource scarcity.
2. Desire for rapid industrialization.
3. Mao Zedong's pro-natalist policies.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: Concerns about resource scarcity and the desire for rapid industrialization were key factors leading to the one-child policy. Mao Zedong's earlier policies were pro-natalist, making statement 3 incorrect.
Question 3
Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the demographic trends in China?
- China's population has decreased for the fourth consecutive year.
- The number of deaths reached one of the highest totals in five decades in 2025.
- China's birth rate in 2025 was the highest since records began in 1949.
- The number of people aged 60 and above reached 310 million at the end of 2024.
Explanation: China's birth rate in 2025 was the lowest since records began in 1949, not the highest. The other statements are correct based on the provided information.
Previous Year Questions
PYQ 1 - UPSC Prelims 2024 2024
Which of the following factors is NOT directly cited as a contributing factor to China's declining population in the provided context?
- (a) Long-term effects of the former one-child policy
- (b) Record low birth rates
- (c) High death rates
- (d) Increased emigration of young adults
Explanation: The provided context mentions the one-child policy, low birth rates, and high death rates as contributing factors. Increased emigration is not explicitly mentioned.
PYQ 2 - UPSC Mains 2024 2024
Discuss the potential economic and social implications of China's declining population and aging workforce. What measures can the Chinese government take to mitigate these challenges?
PYQ 3 - SSC CGL 2024 2024
What was the approximate percentage decrease in births in China from 2024 to 2025, according to the provided information?
- (a) 10%
- (b) 15%
- (c) 17%
- (d) 20%
Explanation: The birth rate declined by 17% from 2024 to 2025.
PYQ 4 - SSC CHSL 2024 2024
In which year did China record its lowest birth figure since records began, according to the provided context?
- (a) 1949
- (b) 2024
- (c) 2025
- (d) 2020
Explanation: The lowest birth figure was recorded in 2025.
PYQ 5 - IBPS PO 2024 2024
Which of the following is a likely consequence of China's declining population on its banking sector?
- (a) Increased demand for mortgages due to a younger population
- (b) Decreased demand for pension products
- (c) Increased demand for elderly care services and related financial products
- (d) Reduced government spending on social security
Explanation: A declining and aging population will likely increase the demand for elderly care services and related financial products.
PYQ 6 - SBI PO 2024 2024
If the trend of declining birth rates and increasing deaths continues in China, what impact might this have on the Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) of banks?
- (a) NPAs will likely decrease due to a stronger economy
- (b) NPAs will likely increase due to potential economic slowdown and reduced repayment capacity
- (c) There will be no significant impact on NPAs
- (d) NPAs will remain stable due to government intervention
Explanation: A declining population can lead to economic slowdown and reduced repayment capacity, potentially increasing NPAs.
PYQ 7 - CDS 2024 2024
Which of the following is a potential geopolitical consequence of China's declining population?
- (a) Increased military spending due to a larger pool of potential recruits
- (b) Enhanced economic competitiveness due to a younger workforce
- (c) Reduced global influence due to economic stagnation and internal challenges
- (d) Greater focus on international development aid
Explanation: Economic stagnation and internal challenges stemming from a declining population could reduce China's global influence.
PYQ 8 - CDS 2024 2024
China's declining population could lead to which of the following security challenges?
- (a) Increased internal stability due to reduced competition for resources
- (b) Difficulty in maintaining a large and effective military force
- (c) Enhanced border security due to a smaller population
- (d) Reduced need for technological advancements in defense
Explanation: A declining population can make it difficult to maintain a large and effective military force.