World Population Day 2024: To leave no one behind, count everyone

Dr N Sharat Singh
The hilly terrain and limited connectivity hinder economic development and access to services, resulting in lower access to healthcare and education. For example, only 52.6% of households in Meghalaya and 57.9% in Manipur have improved sanitation facilities, compared to the national average of 70.2%. Migration from neighbouring countries and other Indian states further alters the demographic balance, leading to social and political tensions, particularly in Assam and Manipur.
While both regions face population challenges, the root causes and impacts differ significantly. Mainland India's issues are largely driven by urbanization and industrialization, leading to environmental and infrastructural strains. In contrast, the North East's problems are deeply intertwined with ethnic diversity, geographical isolation, and socio-political dynamics. Addressing these issues requires tailored approaches. For mainland India, strategies should focus on sustainable urban planning, resource management, and improving rural infrastructure to reduce migration pressures.
In the North East, policies need to emphasize inclusive development, preserving cultural identities, and enhancing connectivity to integrate the region more effectively with the rest of the country. Understanding and addressing these distinct population problems is crucial for balanced and inclusive development across India.
The author, an Associate Professor of Statistics at Dhanamanjuri University, Imphal, welcomes feedback and constructive suggestions via [email protected]