“Families Must Have at Least Three Children,” says RSS Chief Bhagwat

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 2nd Dec. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat’s recent remarks advocating for families to have a minimum of three children have reignited debates on India’s population policies. His comments, linking population stability to societal survival, have drawn significant attention and criticism across political circles.

Speaking in Nagpur, Bhagwat warned that a decline in fertility rates below 2.1 could lead to a society’s eventual extinction, citing examples of disappearing cultures and languages. He emphasized that India’s population policy, devised in the late 1990s, aimed to prevent any community’s population from falling below this critical threshold.

“Families must have at least three children to ensure demographic stability,” Bhagwat argued, calling it a necessity to preserve India’s societal and cultural fabric.

Political Reactions
Bhagwat’s remarks have sparked a backlash, especially from opposition parties in Bihar, where population policies have been a contentious issue.

RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari criticized the apparent contradiction between the RSS chief’s statements and the BJP’s campaigns promoting population control. “While the government advocates family planning, Bhagwat’s comments send a confusing message,” Tiwari said.

JD(U) spokesperson Arvind Nishad echoed similar concerns, pointing to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s emphasis on women’s education as a solution to population management. Nishad suggested that Bhagwat align his views with BJP leaders who advocate for controlling population growth.

Policy and Demographic Perspectives
Bhagwat’s remarks have reopened discussions on India’s population dynamics. Advocates for smaller families argue that empowering women, improving healthcare, and promoting education offer more sustainable solutions. Critics warn that encouraging larger families could strain resources and complicate existing challenges in healthcare, education, and employment.

While Bhagwat underscores the need for population stability to safeguard society, experts highlight that sustainable development and socio-economic measures are crucial to achieving a balanced demographic future.