Give a reasoned account of growth of population in india since independence highlighting its demographic transitions. What measure Government of india has to take to reap the demographic dividend.

The growth of the population in India since independence has been marked by significant changes in demographic trends, reflecting various stages of demographic transition. Demographic transition refers to the shift from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates as a country undergoes economic and social development. India's population growth trajectory can be understood in the context of these demographic transitions:---

First Stage (Pre-Independence): Before independence, India had high birth rates and high death rates, resulting in a relatively stable population. Limited healthcare facilities and high infant mortality kept the population growth in check.

Second Stage (Early Post-Independence): After independence, improvements in healthcare, sanitation, and nutrition led to a decline in death rates, particularly infant mortality. However, birth rates remained high, resulting in rapid population growth. This phase is characterized by a population explosion.

Third Stage (Mid-20th Century Onwards): During this phase, birth rates begin to decline due to increased awareness about family planning and socioeconomic development. However, the decline in birth rates was not as rapid as in developed countries, leading to continued population growth.

Fourth Stage (Current Phase): India is currently in the midst of transitioning to the fourth stage of demographic transition. Birth rates are further declining, approaching replacement levels, while death rates remain low. This phase is marked by a stabilized and gradually aging population.

To reap the demographic dividend, which refers to the period when the proportion of the working-age population is larger compared to the dependent population (children and elderly), the Government of India needs to implement certain measures:---

Education and Skill Development: Providing quality education and skill development opportunities to the young population can enhance their employability and productivity, contributing to economic growth.

Employment Generation: The government needs to create a conducive environment for job creation through policies that promote entrepreneurship, industrial growth, and investment in labour-intensive sectors.

Healthcare and Nutrition: Ensuring access to good healthcare and proper nutrition will result in a healthier and more productive workforce.

Family Planning and Reproductive Health: Continuing and strengthening family planning initiatives can help control population growth and maintain a manageable population size.

Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment: Promoting gender equality and empowering women can lead to delayed marriages and childbirth, contributing to lower fertility rates.

Investment in Infrastructure: Adequate infrastructure, including transportation, communication, and housing, is essential to support urbanization and the growth of industries.

Skilled Migration: Facilitating skilled migration can help in addressing labour shortages in specific sectors and countries, while also enabling remittances that contribute to the economy.

Social Safety Nets: Implementing social safety net programs can provide a safety cushion for vulnerable segments of the population, allowing them to participate in economic activities more effectively.

Inclusive Development: Ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared equitably across all sections of society can prevent social inequalities that might hinder the realization of demographic dividend potential.

In conclusion, India's population growth since independence has gone through various stages of demographic transition. To fully harness the demographic dividend, the government must focus on education, employment, healthcare, family planning, gender equality, and overall inclusive development. These measures are crucial for maximizing the economic and social benefits of a young and productive workforce.