India has long discussed population growth and family planning, with slogans such as “Hum Do Hamare Do” encouraging smaller families. However, a community in Gujarat is now taking a different approach as it faces concerns over a declining population.
The Kutch Kadva Patidar Samaj (KKPS) in South Gujarat has introduced a scheme under which parents having a third child will receive a fixed deposit (FD) of ₹50,000. Community leaders say the initiative is aimed at encouraging young couples to have larger families and addressing the decline in the community’s population.
Why Has the Community Introduced the FD Scheme?
KKPS leaders say the number of children being born within the community has been falling, with many young couples either choosing not to have children or limiting their families to one child.
According to Javerilal Ramani, vice president of the South Gujarat zone of KKPS, the idea for the scheme came from observing this changing family pattern. The community hopes that providing a financial incentive through a fixed deposit will encourage eligible couples to consider having a third child.
The community also plans to publicly honor parents who have a third child as part of the initiative.
KKPS Population in South Gujarat
The Kutch Kadva Patidar community in South Gujarat has an estimated population of around 17,000. Community representatives say their population has been steadily declining, raising concerns about the future size of the community.
The initiative is intended to encourage younger members to have more children and help maintain the community’s population over time. Leaders have also described the effort as a response to demographic changes involving caste, religion and age.
Ramesh Parasia, vice president of the All India Kutch Kadva Patidar Community, said several welfare programmes are already being operated for members of the community.
Community Leaders Hope for More Participation
The ₹50,000 fixed deposit is part of the community’s effort to encourage families to have a third child. Leaders are hoping that more young couples will participate in the initiative and that it will help address concerns over the community’s declining population.
The scheme reflects the changing demographic concerns faced by the community and its attempt to encourage larger families through financial support and public recognition.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general informational purposes and is based on statements and information provided by community representatives. Details of the fixed deposit scheme, eligibility conditions and implementation may be subject to change. Readers should verify the latest information directly with the Kutch Kadva Patidar Samaj before relying on the scheme’s details.