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Current Affairs

Andaman and Nicobar Islands Record India's Lowest Total Fertility Rate at 0.9 in NFHS-6

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According to the National Family Health Survey-6 (NFHS-6) data published in 2026, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands recorded India's lowest Total Fertility Rate (TFR) at 0.9, significantly below the replacement fertility level of 2.1 children per woman. This represents a steep decline from earlier NFHS rounds, where TFR was 1.4 in NFHS-4 (2015-16) and 1.3 in NFHS-5 (2019-20). The data also show a demographic shift toward an aging population, with the population aged 60 years and above increasing, and a decline in children under five years. Preschool attendance among children aged 2-4 years fell substantially between NFHS-5 and NFHS-6. These trends indicate a shrinking young population and growing older age groups in the islands.

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Key Facts

  • The Andaman and Nicobar Islands' Total Fertility Rate (TFR) was 0.9 in NFHS-6 (2023-24 survey period), the lowest in India.
  • This TFR is well below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman, signaling a shrinking population without migration.
  • India's national average TFR in NFHS-6 is 1.9 children per woman.
  • TFR in Andaman and Nicobar decreased from 1.4 in NFHS-4 (2015-16) to 1.3 in NFHS-5 (2019-20), and sharply to 0.9 in NFHS-6.
  • The share of children under five years declined from 5.3% in NFHS-5 to 3.7% in NFHS-6.
  • The population aged 60 years and above grew from 11% to 12.6% in the same period.
  • Preschool attendance for children aged 2-4 dropped from 88.5% in NFHS-5 to 66.2% in NFHS-6.

Background & Context

Total Fertility Rate (TFR) is a demographic measure indicating the average number of children a woman is expected to have during her reproductive lifespan (typically ages 15 to 49). A TFR of about 2.1 children per woman is considered the 'replacement level' in population studies, meaning the population will stabilize if TFR remains at this level over time. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS) is a large-scale, multi-round survey conducted across India, providing critical data on population, health, and nutrition indicators at national, state, and union territory levels.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands showing a low and declining TFR, coupled with an increased share of elderly, point to demographic aging, a concern for population sustainability and socio-economic planning.

Why This Matters for Exams / Exam Relevance

Keen understanding of regional demographic trends, such as fertility rates below replacement levels and population aging, is essential for competitive exams covering current affairs, geography, and social studies. Questions may focus on interpreting NFHS data, demographic indicators like TFR, and their implications for India and specific regions like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Points to Remember

  • Andaman and Nicobar Islands recorded India's lowest TFR at 0.9 in NFHS-6.
  • Replacement fertility rate is 2.1 children per woman.
  • National TFR was 1.9 in NFHS-6, showing India overall below replacement level.
  • The islands show signs of population aging with fewer young children and more elderly.
  • Preschool attendance decline from 88.5% to 66.2% signals social-demographic changes.
  • Know the timeline: NFHS-4 (2015-16), NFHS-5 (2019-20), NFHS-6 (2023-24, data released in 2026).
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