Which period in India's demographic history is marked by a sharp decline in mortality and persistently high fertility rates?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is C – Phase III (1951–1981).

Explanation:

• Phase III (1951–1981) in India’s demographic history is marked by a sharp decline in mortality (due to improvements in healthcare, sanitation, and nutrition) and persistently high fertility rates.
• The decline in mortality was driven by advancements in medical technology, better healthcare infrastructure, and the introduction of public health initiatives like vaccination programs.
• However, fertility rates remained high during this period due to cultural factors, lack of awareness, and limited access to family planning methods.

Information Booster:

• Decline in Mortality: Improvements in healthcare and public health measures, such as the development of vaccines, better sanitation, and medical treatments, led to a significant reduction in the mortality rate.
• Persistence of High Fertility: While mortality rates fell, fertility rates remained high. This was due to a combination of factors, including the prevalence of large families in rural areas, limited access to contraceptive methods, and societal norms valuing large families.
• Economic and Social Challenges: The population growth, resulting from high fertility and declining mortality, led to increased pressure on resources like food, water, and housing, which presented challenges for India’s economic and social policies.
• Government Interventions: During this period, India’s government started implementing family planning programs, though their impact was slow, and fertility rates did not decrease significantly until later decades.