Sample Registration Survey Statistical Report

The Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2023 has revealed some crucial demographic insights, particularly highlighting the ageing population and changes in fertility rates in India.

About the Sample Registration Survey Statistical Report

• The SRS is conducted by the Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India (ORGI).

• It offers valuable data on fertility and mortality indicators, including key metrics such as:

  • Crude Birth Rate (CBR)

  • Crude Death Rate (CDR)

  • Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)

Key Highlights of the 2023 Report

1. Total Fertility Rate (TFR):

   • India's TFR has fallen to 1.9 in 2023, marking the first decline in two years.

   • This is significant because it is below the replacement level of 2.1.

   • 18 States and UTs have reported a TFR below the replacement level.

2. Crude Birth Rate (CBR):

   • The CBR in India has decreased by 0.7 points, from 19.1 in 2022 to 18.4 in 2023.

   • The highest CBR was recorded in Bihar (25.8), while the lowest was in Tamil Nadu (12).

3. Ageing Population:

   • 9.7% of India’s population is now aged 60 or above, a notable rise from 8.6% in 2011.

   • Kerala has the highest proportion, with nearly 15% of its population aged above 60.

4. Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB):

   • The sex ratio at birth in India is recorded at 917, which means that for every 1,000 boys, there are 917 girls born.

Implications

• The decline in fertility rates and the ageing population reflect shifting demographic trends in India. The ageing population, in particular, signals a need for policies targeting elderly care, healthcare accessibility, and pension schemes.

• A decline in birth rates also has implications for long-term workforce demographics, as a shrinking younger population might affect labor supply in future decades.

• The sex ratio at birth is a critical indicator, although it still falls short of a balanced ratio, signaling that gender disparities remain a challenge