SHADES OF GREY

Nations, like individuals, don’t stay forever young.  Even as India is poised to reap the demographic dividend of a young and skilled population, the spectre of a greying nation is a looming threat.

As the total fertility rate falls below the replacement level, and people live longer, the social and economic costs of an ageing nation become an unbearable burden. Healthcare facilities are stretched;  household savings are under strain.  A shrinking workforce could slow overall economic growth and push down productivity.