Q- Present an account of the Demographic Transition

Theory of population growth giving suitable example.

INTRODUCTION
Demographic transition denotes a prolonged evolution in
birth and death rates, leading to a noteworthy alteration in the
age composition of a population. The application of
demographic transition theory proves instrumental in
elucidating and predicting the future population dynamics of
any region. The acquisition of demographic data is of
paramount importance, serving as a foundational element for
the formulation and execution of state policies, particularly
those directed towards economic advancement and the
overall well-being of the public.
DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION THEORY
The demographic transition theory investigates the intricate
relationship between economic development and population
growth, delving into the nuanced shifts in birth and death
rates, as well as the overall population growth rate, aligning
with the trajectory of growth and development.
This comprehensive theory not only provides a retrospective
analysis but is also instrumental in describing and predicting
the prospective population dynamics of any given area.
 As societies undergo a transformative journey from
predominantly rural, agrarian, and less-educated settings to
becoming predominantly urban, industrial, literate, and
modern, the demographic transition theory posits a distinct
pattern of demographic change.
 This evolution unfolds from a phase characterised by high
fertility and high mortality rates to a subsequent stage
marked by low fertility and low mortality rates.
 These transformative stages are collectively identified as the
demographic cycle.
 Crucially, the theory establishes that these demographic
changes occur in discernible stages, each representing a
distinctive phase of societal development.
 The stages of the demographic transition are intricately
linked to the state of economic development, serving as a
pivotal determinant.
 This interconnectedness allows for the classification of
societies into four stages within the demographic transition
model, offering a structured framework for understanding
and analysing the dynamic interplay between economic
progress and population dynamics.
STAGES ASSOCIATED WITH DEMOGRAPHIC
TRANSITION
First Stage
 In the initial stage of demographic transition, the country
experiences a low level of economic development, with
agriculture being the primary source of income.
 The standard of living is low due to factors such as
epidemics, famines, and limited access to medical facilities.
 This stage is marked by high fertility, high infant mortality,
and low life expectancy.
Second Stage
 The second stage witnesses a high birth rate but a declining
death rate, leading to rapid population growth.
 Improvements in healthcare contribute to a significant
reduction in the death rate, while the birth rate remains high
due to social factors.
 The population pyramid expands rapidly, indicating a
“Population Explosion” characterised by a large number of
teenagers.
Third Stage
 In the third stage, the birth rate decreases, resulting in lower
population growth. Economic development prompts
structural changes, with urbanisation becoming prevalent.
 Large families are viewed as a liability, leading to a decline
in the birth rate, while the death rate remains low.
 India is cited as an example, and it’s also known as the
“Stage of Declining Birth Rate and Low Death Rate.”
Fourth Stage
 Population stabilisation characterises the fourth stage,
featuring low birth and death rates. Dramatic improvements
in the standard of living result from rapid economic
development. Family size becomes a priority for quality of
life.
The fertility rate is close to or lower than 2.1, and the
population includes a substantial number of elderly
individuals.
Example 1: United States The United States
experienced the demographic transition throughout the
19th and 20th centuries. In the 1800s, it transitioned from
a pre-industrial agrarian society (Stage 1) to early
industrialization (Stage 2) with the onset of the Industrial
Revolution By the mid-20th century, the US entered the
mature industrial economy stage (Stage 3), characterized
by declining birth rates due to urbanization, education,
and access to contraception.

Example 2: China China provides a more recent example

of the demographic transition. Until the mid-20th century,
China was largely agrarian, with high birth and death rates.
However, with rapid economic development and
government policies such as the one-child policy, China
transitioned to a mature industrial economy Currently,
China is experiencing challenges associated with an aging
population and low fertility rates.

Conclusion

The Demographic Transition Theory provides a framework

for understanding the complex interplay between
economic development and population growth.