Bhagwat wades into population row

RSS chief advocates larger families for stability

RSS chief Dr Mohan Bhagwat has reignited India's population debate, urging families to have at least three children to ensure societal survival.

Speaking in Nagpur, Bhagwat cited demographic studies to justify his appeal, warning that a fertility rate below 2.1 could lead to the extinction of communities.

"A decline in population is a serious concern. Demographic studies reveal that societies with fertility rates below 2.1 face extinction, often without any external threats. Many languages and cultures have disappeared due to this," Bhagwat stated.

"To prevent this, our population must remain above 2.1. Since fractional children are not possible, population science suggests a family should have at least three children."