Age structural transition in South Asia: economic consequences

P. Sadasivan Nair, University of Botswana
Asha T Chacko, University of Kerala
Sajini B Nair, Population Research Center, University of Kerala

In this paper, we examine the age structural transition in South Asia and its consequences in the socio-economic front in the region.‘The World Population Prospects, 2004 Revision’ forms the data base of the study. The proportion of the work force is 61 percent and is expected to increase by 7 percent in the next 5 decades. In Sri Lanka, the so-called ‘demographic bonus’ will last for only a short period; but it will prevail in India for about three decades. Bangladesh, Maldives, Bhutan, Nepal and Pakistan will continue to have this advantage for some more time. The availability of a larger proportion of people in the working age group, coupled with a reduction of young age dependency, can be effectively utilized for the economic development of the region if labour intensive developmental strategy is pursued. Projections show marked increases of populations 65+. Its socio-economic impact is also well documented.