More good than bad in Delhi’s fertility rate drop

• Delhi recorded the lowest Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in 2021, a 26.3% decline from 2011.

• The lowest TFR was recorded in Bihar at 3.0, the highest among the national averages.

• Factors contributing to Delhi’s lowest TFR include inflation, more women in the workforce, independent decision-making, better maternal and infant health, and infertility.

• The shift in fertility cycle has seen an increase in middle age groups (30-44) and a decrease in lower age groups (15-29).

• In 2011, Delhi’s Age Specific Fertility Rate was 139.7, which reduced to 65.4 in 2021.

• Women’s priority to careers in their twenties and family planning after becoming financially independent are contributing factors.

• Infertility due to a sedentary lifestyle, long working hours, and higher intake of junk food are also contributing factors.

• Stress and pollution, common in cities like Delhi, are also contributing to PCOS.