UPSC CSE Prelims
Human Geography Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
Showing solved Previous Year Questions for Chapter: Human Geography
Topic Breakdown: Scroll →
Consider the following countries :
- Italy
- Japan
- Nigeria
- South Korea
- South Africa
Which of the above countries are frequently mentioned in the media for their low birth rates, or ageing population or declining population?
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 1 — 1, 2 and 4
Italy, Japan, and South Korea are frequently mentioned in global media for their extremely low fertility rates, rapidly ageing populations, and projected population declines. These countries face significant demographic challenges including shrinking workforces, increased healthcare costs, and pension sustainability issues.
Nigeria has a very young and rapidly growing population, while South Africa's population growth has slowed but is not yet declining. Neither country is characterized by low birth rates or ageing population concerns that dominate discussions about Italy, Japan, and South Korea.
📝 Short Notes: Global Demographic Trends and Population Ageing
| Country | Demographic Status | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Japan | Super-aged society | One of the world's oldest populations; fertility rate ~1.3; over 28% population above 65 years; population declining since 2011 |
| Italy | Rapidly ageing | Fertility rate ~1.2-1.3; median age over 47 years; one of Europe's oldest populations; facing labour shortage |
| South Korea | Lowest fertility globally | Fertility rate dropped to ~0.7-0.8 (lowest in world); population projected to halve by 2100; government implementing pro-natalist policies |
| Nigeria | Young and growing | Fertility rate ~5.3; median age ~18 years; fastest growing population in Africa; projected to be 3rd most populous by 2050 |
| South Africa | Moderate growth | Fertility rate ~2.3; relatively young population; growth slowing but not declining; HIV/AIDS impact on demographics |
- Demographic Dividend vs Demographic Burden: Countries with young populations (Nigeria) potentially benefit from demographic dividend, while ageing societies face economic burdens from increased dependency ratios.
- Economic Implications: Low birth rates lead to shrinking workforces, reduced consumption, decreased tax revenues, and challenges in sustaining pension and healthcare systems.
- Policy Responses: Japan, Italy, and South Korea have implemented various measures including childcare support, parental leave policies, immigration reforms, and automation to address demographic challenges.
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