India, Nov. 11 -- India, now the world's most populous nation and the fourth-largest economy, has a remarkably young population, 60% are under 35. Life expectancy has surged from 32 years in 1947 to 70.8 in 2025, reflecting economic growth and evolving health care.

But, demographic tides are shifting. Fertility rates have dipped below the replacement level of 2.1, driven by rising education, urban lifestyles, and cost of living. Seniors (60+) will grow from 7-10% today to nearly 20-25% by 2050. Youth will decline to around 35-40%, and the median age will rise sharply. India has some catching up to do.

This transition must be seen through the lens of the Viksit Bharat mission. Its four pillars: yuva (youth), gareeb (the poor), mahilayen ...