Andhra Pradesh CM Nara Chandrababu Naidu Proposes New Law for Local Body Elections Based on Family Size
In a bold policy shift aimed at addressing population trends and fostering sustainable growth, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu announced plans to introduce a new law that would allow individuals to contest local body elections only if they have at least two children. The Chief Minister made this statement during a press interaction on Thursday, emphasizing that population growth is now a critical factor for the state’s development.
Naidu highlighted that while population growth was once seen as a burden, it is now considered an asset that is integral to the state’s future prosperity. He noted that previous governments had promoted population control policies, even disqualifying candidates with more than two children from contesting elections. However, in light of current demographic trends, Naidu explained that these policies need to be reversed in order to ensure the state’s continued growth and stability.
The state government is preparing to amend existing laws that disqualify individuals with more than two children from participating in elections. The Chief Minister further explained that maintaining a stable fertility rate is essential for effective population management, citing projections that Andhra Pradesh’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) could fall from 1.51 in 2026 to as low as 1.07 by 2051. Naidu warned that such a sharp decline could have long-term consequences for the state’s workforce and economy, with fewer young people entering the labor market to support an aging population.
Naidu emphasized that a TFR of 2.1 is necessary to maintain population stability, and the proposed law is part of the government’s broader strategy to encourage families to have at least two children. He further explained that future welfare schemes would factor in family size, signaling a shift towards policies that incentivize population growth while also ensuring social welfare and economic stability.
This proposal reflects the Andhra Pradesh government’s proactive approach to managing demographic challenges, as it seeks to balance population control with sustainable development. While the new policy has generated discussions on its implications, it marks a significant shift in the state’s population management strategy, signaling the government’s commitment to addressing future demographic and economic challenges.
