INDIA: In a unique move, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MP Kalisetti Appalanaidu has announced an incentive program aimed at encouraging women to have a third child. This initiative is designed to address the declining birth rates in certain regions and promote population growth in rural and underdeveloped areas. The announcement has sparked widespread interest and debate, as it presents a financial reward to mothers who give birth to a third child, helping them with child-rearing expenses.
Appalanaidu highlighted that the incentive would not only benefit the families directly but also contribute to the overall development of the region by increasing the labor force. According to him, the policy will help in maintaining a balanced demographic structure, which is essential for economic progress and sustainability. He stated that the program is particularly focused on rural women who often face economic challenges when raising larger families.
The program will offer financial support, as well as other incentives, including access to educational resources and healthcare services. The exact amount of the reward and the implementation details are yet to be fully disclosed, but the MP has assured that the program will be carefully managed to ensure fairness and transparency. The initiative is also expected to reduce the pressure on existing families by offering them practical assistance.
While the proposal has received praise from some sections of society, it has also attracted criticism. Some critics argue that encouraging larger families may strain existing public resources and place undue pressure on social services. Despite these concerns, the TDP MP remains firm in his belief that the incentive program will be beneficial in the long term, promoting sustainable growth and supporting women’s empowerment.