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The Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2023, released by the Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner (ORGI), provides crucial insights into India’s demographic transition. The report highlights notable shifts in fertility, mortality, and ageing patterns, underlining both progress and challenges in population dynamics.

Key Findings of SRS 2023

1. Total Fertility Rate (TFR)

• India’s TFR declined to 1.9 in 2023, falling below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman.
• This marks the first decline in two years, reflecting sustained fertility reduction.
• State variations:
  • Highest TFR: Bihar (2.8 among larger states).
  • Lowest TFR: Tamil Nadu (well below replacement).
• 18 States/UTs reported TFR below replacement level, indicating an advancing demographic transition.

2. Crude Birth Rate (CBR)

• The national CBR declined from 19.1 (2022) to 18.4 (2023).
• State-wise extremes:
  • Bihar: 25.8 (highest).
  • Tamil Nadu: 12 (lowest).

3. Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)

• India’s IMR touched a historic low of 25 per 1,000 live births in 2023, down significantly from 40 in 2013.
• The decline highlights improvements in maternal and child healthcare.

4. Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB): The SRB stood at 917 girls per 1,000 boys, reflecting persistent gender imbalance despite gradual improvements in many regions.

5. Ageing Population

• Seniors (aged 60+) constitute 9.7% of the population, up from 8.6% in 2011.
• State variation: Kerala leads with nearly 15% elderly population, indicating advanced population ageing.

Significance of the Trends

• Demographic Transition:The fall in fertility and birth rates confirms India’s movement towards a stabilising population, with many states already below replacement fertility.
• Public Health Gains:The sharp fall in IMR highlights the impact of government interventions in maternal health, institutional deliveries, and immunisation.
• Gender Challenges:A low SRB underscores continuing son preference and gender discrimination, raising concerns for long-term demographic balance.
• Ageing Burden:Rising share of the elderly, especially in southern states, signals the need for social security, geriatric healthcare, and pension reforms.