PDP's Waheed Para Tables Bill to Address Sustained Below-Replacement Fertility in Jammu and Kashmir

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislator Waheed Para has introduced a Bill aimed at addressing the long-term consequences of low fertility rates in Jammu and Kashmir. The legislation seeks to implement voluntary, rights-based measures to address declining fertility rates through education, healthcare, and social support.

According to the National Family Health Survey-5. The total fertility rate in the region is around 1.4 children per woman. Significantly lower than the conventional replacement-level fertility rate of 2.1.

The Bill, titled 'Ma-Beti aur Aane Wali Naslein Bachao Bill', seeks to protect Kashmir'It's future generations from demographic decline and promote women's advancement.

Read More: Indian Women Riders Face Harassment, Intimidation on Roads

The Bill's introduction comes amid a declining fertility rate over several years. Jammu and Kashmir has one of the lowest fertility rates in India. With even the national average of 1.9 children per woman sitting below replacement level.

Waheed Para emphasized the need for urgent action, stating that "Jammu and Kashmir is vanishing, and it has nothing to do with politics." The legislator noted that the region's fertility rate has plummeted to 1.4 children per woman, making it one of the lowest in India.

Key provisions of the Bill include establishing a comprehensive statutory framework for reproductive-health awareness and healthcare. Providing age-appropriate education, and ensuring free sanitary products in educational institutions and public healthcare facilities.

Also Read: Chhattisgarh Police Unravel Rs 120-Crore Khair Smuggling Network

The legislation also aims to provide financial and educational support for families raising children. As well as protection of women's dignity, privacy, autonomy, and reproductive rights.

The Bill was submitted during the ongoing Monsoon Session, leaving its fate uncertain.

The future of the Bill remains to be seen, as it awaits consideration from lawmakers.