A population pyramid is a visual device that graphically displays the age and sex distribution of a specific demographic. Composed of two histograms, it separates data by gender with men and women traditionally represented on the left and right respectively. Horizontal bars represent number quantities, while vertical axis signifies varying ages.
This unique presentation of data is determined by several dynamics, including fertility rates, mortality rates, and migration patterns. The pyramid’s shape and its changes over time predominantly hinge on fluctuations in fertility. The pyramid can assume varying forms, from a columnar structure with vertical sides to irregular configurations.
Comparing India and China’s Population Pyramids
India’s pyramid has a noticeable heavier bottom, illustrating a larger percentage of children, teenagers, and young adults than China. The four age groups 0-4, 5-9, 10-14, and 15-19 exhibit approximately equal populations in India. However, the numbers for older cohorts decrease progressively. This pattern suggests a halt in the growth of the country’s younger age demographics, potentially leading to a slight decline soon.
Contrary to common perception, this trend does not signal an impending decrease in India’s total population. Except for the eldest age groups, Indian males seem to outnumber females across all cohorts.
On the other hand, China’s most populated age cohort is the late 40s. Interestingly, this group possesses more gender balance compared to younger groups, indicating a probable rise in sex-selective abortions in recent times.
Working Age Population Dynamics
The working-age group, classified as ages 25-65, comprises around 650 million people in India and 830 million in China. Forecasts for 2040 posit India reaching 900 million, while China is expected to have about 730 million. In this scenario, India would experience a significant shift – from having 180 million fewer working-age people than China today to a surplus of roughly 170 million.
Some Facts About Population
| Country | Working Age Population (Current) | Forecast for 2040 |
|---|---|---|
| India | 650 Million | 900 Million |
| China | 830 Million | 730 Million |
The Importance of Workforce Productivity
Having a large working-age population is not necessarily advantageous by itself. What matters equally, if not more, is how many are actually involved in the labour force and their corresponding productivity levels.
Governments need to focus on improving these factors. For instance, India needs to ramp up its investments prudently in human capital and infrastructure. In terms of human capital, sustaining investments in health and sanitation is crucial, as well as evolving more Public Private Partnership (PPP) models to ensure basic education.
For infrastructure, policymakers should consider encouraging affordable rental housing in urban areas. Additionally, investing extensively in rail connectivity will contribute positively to the nation’s development.
