International Institute for Population Sciences
Deemed to be University (An Autonomous Organization of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India)

Shift from joint-family system to nuclear family system has affected the structure of the family system in India. Socio-cultural and educational development was the basis of fertility decline and rapid spread of nuclear family system in Kerala. Hence, the objective of present study is to assess the structural changes in the family in India and selected low fertility states. National Family Health Survey data (1992-92 to 2019-21) has been used for the analysis. Along with NFHS, other available secondary sources of data like National Sample Survey (various rounds) and Sample Registration System were also incorporated for the study. Findings: A decline in younger age population is observed across both urban and rural parts of the country, though it differs in its pace. Proportion of children aged less than 10 years has declined more or less similar pattern in the country. Over the three decades of NFHS, Kerala experienced sharp decline in its child and younger age population. Share of higher age population has increased in the state. The rural-urban difference in the higher concentration of elderly people is more visible in southern states and Maharashtra where decline in fertility started earlier than other states like Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and West Bengal. During the last three decades, due to decline in fertility, the country has experienced reduction in the child dependency, at the same time that of elderly has increased slightly. Conclusion: Increased student migration and higher aspiration for the students for permanent residence in the foreign country devastated the Indian families. Pre-marital classes may be provided strictly to both the partners to ensure harmony in marital life. Respect to each partner is essential in reducing the rate of divorces. Inclusion of elderly people in the welfare and community-based programmes is also necessary.