The 'Demographic Dividend' refers to the economic growth potential that arises when a country's working-age population (15-64 years) constitutes a higher proportion than dependents. India is currently in the demographic dividend phase. The key prerequisite for countries to capitalise on the demographic dividend is:

• A Continuation of high fertility rates to maintain working-age population
• B Restricting immigration to prevent dilution of the dividend
• C Investment in education, health, and employment generation for the large working-age cohort ✓
• D Reduction of per capita income to encourage larger family sizes

Explanation

The demographic dividend is not automatic — it is conditional on the working-age bulge being productively employed and healthy. Countries that successfully capitalize on it (East Asian 'tiger' economies, Thailand) invested heavily in education (especially girls), healthcare, and created sufficient employment opportunities. Without these investments, a large working-age population without jobs creates a 'demographic burden' rather than a dividend. India's window for demographic dividend is estimated to last until 2055-2060, requiring urgent human capital investment.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.