Comprehension

In response to the problem of rapidly rising population, China introduced the ‘One Child Policy’. The policy restricted couples to having only one child. This policy helped China to limit the population growth. 
This policy led to significant consequences, such as an increase in the ageing population, gender imbalances due to male child preference and social challenges for single children, etc.
This policy was relaxed in 2015, allowing couples to have two children and further relaxed to three children in 2021.
Overall, while the One Child Policy achieved its primary goal of controlling population growth, it also created a complex set of demographic and social challenges that China continues to address today.

Question: 1

Explain the consequences of the implementation of the One Child Policy in China.

Show Hint

The One Child Policy in China achieved its goal of controlling population growth, but it also led to social, economic, and demographic challenges, such as ageing, gender imbalance, and workforce shortages.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
Show Solution

Solution and Explanation

China's One Child Policy, implemented for population control, resulted in several significant outcomes:
1. Ageing Demographics:
A primary consequence was the accelerated ageing of the populace. A decline in births led to a higher proportion of elderly individuals, increasing the dependency ratio and placing strain on social services, particularly healthcare and pensions.
2. Gender Disparity:
Stemming from a cultural preference for sons, the policy intensified gender imbalances. Sex-selective abortions and the abandonment of female infants became prevalent, creating a notable deficit of women and subsequent social problems, such as an increased number of unmarried men.
3. Social Pressures on Singletons:
The policy produced a generation of "only children" who experienced heightened societal and parental expectations for achievement. These individuals often bore the sole responsibility of caring for aging parents, leading to mental and emotional difficulties for many.
4. Economic Ramifications:
A reduced birth rate led to a shrinking workforce, causing labour shortages across various industries and impeding China's economic expansion. The diminishing working-age population necessitated greater reliance on automation and migrant labour.
5. Uneven Population Distribution:
The policy also contributed to an unbalanced population distribution, with urban areas experiencing more growth than rural regions, exacerbating regional disparities and further stressing the economy.
In conclusion, while the One Child Policy was instrumental in curbing China's population growth, it generated enduring social, demographic, and economic challenges that the nation continues to address.
Was this answer helpful?
0
Question: 2

State any one reason for the implementation of the One Child Policy in China.

Show Hint

The One Child Policy was primarily implemented to manage China's rapid population growth and reduce the strain on resources and infrastructure.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
Show Solution

Solution and Explanation

The One Child Policy was instituted in China primarily to manage rapid population growth. By the 1970s, China's population expansion was unsustainable, straining resources like food, water, and energy. The government enacted the policy to reduce this pressure, foster economic stability, and enhance citizens' quality of life.
Was this answer helpful?
0

Top Questions on India and China

Questions Asked in CBSE Class XII exam