APPSC Daily Current Affairs 9th March 2026
Relevance: GS Paper I – Indian Society – Population and Demographic Issues
For Prelims:
- Total Fertility Rate (TFR), Replacement Level Fertility (2.1), Demographic Dividend, Population Ageing, Delimitation, Cash Incentives for Birth, In-vitro Fertilisation (IVF), C-section Births.
For Mains:
- Population Management Policy, Declining Fertility Rates, Demographic Transition, Ageing Population Challenge, Workforce Participation, Human Capital Development.
Why in News?
- The Government of Andhra Pradesh introduced a Draft Population Management Policy in the State Legislative Assembly aimed at addressing the declining fertility rate in the state.
- The policy proposes incentives for families to have two or three children, along with measures to improve maternal health, elderly care, workforce participation and healthcare systems.
- This marks a shift from the traditional “population control” approach to a “population management” strategy.
Background and Context
Population policies in India have historically focused on reducing population growth. However, many regions are now experiencing rapid fertility decline, leading to concerns about an ageing population and shrinking workforce.
Fertility Trends
- Replacement Level Fertility: 2.1 children per woman
- Andhra Pradesh TFR: 1.5
- India TFR: 1.9
Long-Term Trend
| Year | Andhra Pradesh TFR |
| 2003 | 2.2 |
| 2023 | 1.5 |
Southern states generally have lower fertility rates due to better education, healthcare, urbanisation and income levels.
For example:
- Tamil Nadu – 1.3
- Karnataka – 1.5
- Kerala – 1.5
In contrast, northern states such as Bihar (2.8) and Uttar Pradesh (2.6) still have higher fertility rates.
Key Features of Andhra Pradesh Draft Population Policy
The policy includes five major components:
1. Matrutva
- Focus on maternal health and well-being.
2. Shakti
- Encouraging greater participation of women in the workforce.
3. Kshema
- Providing better elderly care services.
4. Naipunyam
- Enhancing skills and workforce capacity, including healthcare workers.
5. Sanjeevani
- Strengthening digital public health systems.
Incentives and Welfare Measures
The policy proposes several incentives:
- ₹25,000 cash incentive for birth of the second or third child.
- ₹1,000 per month for five years for the third child to support nutrition.
- Free education till 18 years for second and third children in government institutions.
- Subsidised IVF treatment for infertile couples through PPP models.
Additional healthcare measures include:
- Reducing C-section births from 67.5% to below 40%.
- Reducing teenage pregnancies.
- Reducing male sterilisation dependency.
- Training 10,000 healthcare assistants annually.
Causes of Declining Fertility Rate
Several factors contribute to the decline in fertility:
- Higher female education levels
- Improved healthcare systems
- Increasing urbanisation
- Rising income levels
- Growth of nuclear families
- Changing lifestyle preferences
These trends are commonly associated with economic development.
Implications of Low Fertility
Economic Implications
- Shrinking working-age population
- Reduced economic productivity
- Increased dependency ratio
Social Implications
- Rapid population ageing
- Higher demand for elderly care services
Fiscal Implications
- Greater pressure on government welfare systems
In Andhra Pradesh:
- Median age: 32.5 years (India: 28.4 years)
- Population above 60 years: about 10%, expected to rise to 23% by 2047
Political Dimension: Delimitation Debate
Declining population growth in southern states could affect their parliamentary representation.
Since delimitation is based on population, states with slower population growth could lose seats relative to high-growth states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
The freeze on delimitation for the last 50 years has prevented this issue, but the debate may intensify once the freeze ends.
Policy Significance
The Andhra Pradesh policy reflects a major shift in demographic policy thinking.
Instead of controlling population growth, the focus is now on:
- Managing demographic transition
- Supporting healthy population growth
- Preparing for ageing populations
It also integrates healthcare, workforce development and social security policies.
Challenges / Concerns
- Incentives may have limited impact on fertility behaviour.
- Fiscal burden of long-term welfare incentives.
- Risk of uneven demographic trends across states.
- Cultural and social factors influencing family size may persist.
Way Forward
- Promote women’s education and workforce participation.
- Strengthen public healthcare systems.
- Develop elderly care infrastructure.
- Encourage balanced regional population policies.
- Focus on human capital development rather than only fertility incentives.
Conclusion
Andhra Pradesh’s draft population policy marks a significant shift from population control to population management, recognising the challenges posed by declining fertility and ageing populations. By integrating incentives, healthcare reforms and workforce development, the policy aims to maintain demographic balance and sustain long-term economic growth.
CARE MCQ
Q. With reference to fertility trends in India, consider the following statements:
- Replacement level fertility refers to a total fertility rate of 2.1 children per woman.
- Andhra Pradesh currently has a fertility rate below the replacement level.
- Declining fertility rates can lead to population ageing and shrinking workforce.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D
Explanation
- Statement 1 – Correct: Replacement level fertility is about 2.1 children per woman.
- Statement 2 – Correct: Andhra Pradesh has a TFR of about 1.5, below the replacement level.
- Statement 3 – Correct: Low fertility leads to population ageing and a declining workforce, affecting economic productivity.
Relevance: GS Paper III – Science & Technology, Employment, Artificial Intelligence, Future of Work, Technology and Employment, Digital Economy.
For Prelims:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI), Large Language Models (LLMs), Anthropic AI Study, Claude AI, Automation, Observed Exposure.
For Mains:
- AI-driven Automation, Labour Market Transformation, Skill Disruption, Entry-level Job Decline, Technology-led Economic Change, Digital Workforce Transition.
Why in News?
A labour market study by Anthropic, an Artificial Intelligence company, has analysed how Large Language Models (LLMs) could affect employment patterns.
The study introduces a new indicator called “Observed Exposure”, which measures the extent to which AI is actually being used in workplaces rather than only what it can theoretically perform.
The findings suggest that several knowledge-based professions are highly exposed to AI automation.
Background and Context
Artificial Intelligence technologies such as LLMs and generative AI are capable of performing tasks that require reasoning, language processing and data analysis.
Unlike earlier automation waves that primarily replaced manual labour, AI is now affecting cognitive and professional jobs.
This shift has raised concerns about the future of employment and workforce transformation.
Key Findings of the Anthropic Study
The researchers analysed employment data using three major sources:
- US Occupational Database – mapping tasks associated with about 800 occupations.
- Academic research identifying tasks AI could theoretically automate.
- Claude AI usage data showing how AI is actually used in professional environments.
This led to the development of the Observed Exposure Index, which measures the real impact of AI on job tasks.
Jobs Most Exposed to AI
According to the study, the following professions are highly exposed to AI:
- Computer programmers
- Financial analysts
- Customer service representatives
- Data analysts
- Legal professionals
- Office administration roles
For instance, LLMs can theoretically perform about 94% of tasks in computer and mathematics occupations, though current practical use covers around 33%.
Jobs Least Exposed to AI
Occupations that require physical labour, human presence or manual skills are less vulnerable to AI automation.
Examples include:
- Construction workers
- Agricultural workers
- Protective services (police, firefighters)
- Personal care services
These jobs involve physical interaction with the environment, which AI currently cannot easily replicate.
Impact on Hiring Trends
The study observed significant changes in recruitment patterns:
- Entry into AI-exposed occupations among workers aged 22–25 has declined by about 14% since 2022.
- Companies are not yet laying off workers but are reducing entry-level hiring.
This trend suggests that firms are waiting to determine how much work AI can replace before hiring new employees.
Demographic Impact of AI Exposure
The study found that AI exposure varies across demographic groups.
Workers most exposed to AI tend to be:
- Female (54.4% of exposed jobs)
- Highly educated, especially with graduate degrees
- White or Asian workers in the US labour market
- Slightly older workers (average age around 42.9 years)
This indicates that professional and knowledge workers face greater AI disruption.
Implications for India
Although the study mainly analyses US labour market data, the implications are significant for India.
Impact on IT Services Sector
India’s IT services industry relies heavily on activities such as:
- Data processing
- Contract analysis
- Compliance monitoring
- Customer support
These are exactly the tasks that AI automation tools can increasingly perform.
Market Impact
Concerns about AI disruption have already affected Indian markets:
- The Nifty IT index and stocks of companies like TCS, Wipro and Infosys have fallen significantly.
- Analysts estimate that AI could reduce IT services revenues by 9–12% over the next four years.
Challenges
- Risk of job displacement in knowledge sectors
- Decline in entry-level job opportunities
- Need for large-scale reskilling and upskilling
- Limited investment in research and development in India
- Skills mismatch between workforce capabilities and AI-driven job requirements
Way Forward
1. Strengthen Skill Development
- Promote training in AI, data science, machine learning and digital technologies.
2. Reform Education Systems
- Increase emphasis on STEM education and innovation.
3. Encourage AI Integration
- Industries should adopt AI as a productivity tool rather than resist technological change.
4. Promote New Job Creation
Encourage growth in emerging sectors such as:
- AI development
- Robotics
- Digital infrastructure
- Green technologies
Conclusion
Artificial Intelligence is likely to reshape labour markets by automating many cognitive tasks previously performed by humans. While this transformation offers productivity benefits, it also raises concerns about employment and workforce stability. Countries like India must focus on skill development, innovation and adaptive policies to ensure that AI-driven transformation leads to inclusive economic growth rather than widespread job losses.
CARE MCQ
Q. With reference to Artificial Intelligence and employment, consider the following statements:
- Large Language Models can automate several knowledge-based tasks.
- Occupations involving manual labour are currently less exposed to AI automation.
- Artificial Intelligence has increased entry-level hiring in knowledge sectors.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
Explanation
- Statement 1 – Correct: AI tools such as LLMs can perform several knowledge-based tasks.
- Statement 2 – Correct: Jobs involving physical labour are less vulnerable to AI automation.
- Statement 3 – Incorrect: Entry-level hiring in AI-exposed sectors has declined, not increased.
Relevance : GS Paper III – Environment, Biodiversity Conservation, International Environmental Agreements
For Prelims:
- Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), Seventh National Report (NR7), Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), 30×30 Target, Bonn Challenge, National Biodiversity Authority (NBA).
For Mains:
- Biodiversity Governance, Ecosystem Restoration, Habitat Fragmentation, Land Degradation, Biodiversity Monitoring Framework, Conservation Beyond Protected Areas.
Why in News?
India has submitted its Seventh National Report (NR7) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), providing a comprehensive assessment of the country’s progress toward global biodiversity goals set for 2030.
The report highlights improvements in forest cover, ecosystem restoration and species conservation, but also indicates that only two of the 23 national biodiversity targets are currently on track.
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is an international environmental treaty that commits countries to:
- Conserve biological diversity
- Ensure sustainable use of natural resources
- Promote fair sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources
Under the CBD framework, member countries are required to submit periodic national reports describing:
- Conservation measures undertaken
- Progress achieved
- Remaining challenges
India’s latest report is significant as it represents the first comprehensive assessment since the adoption of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) in 2022.
Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF)
The KMGBF provides the global biodiversity roadmap for the present decade.
Key Goals for 2030
The framework sets 23 global biodiversity targets, including:
- Conserving 30% of the world’s land and oceans (30×30 goal)
- Restoring degraded ecosystems
- Reducing pollution levels
- Controlling invasive species
- Halting human-induced species extinction
India’s report evaluates the country’s progress against 23 national biodiversity targets aligned with these global goals.
Preparation of the Seventh National Report
The report was prepared by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
Institutional Participation
Several institutions contributed to the preparation process:
- 33 central ministries and departments
- National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)
- Wildlife Institute of India (WII)
- United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- Global Environment Facility (GEF-8 Umbrella Programme)
Monitoring Framework
A digital NR7 Data Portal was created to compile biodiversity information across 142 national indicators.
Consultations were conducted throughout 2025, followed by expert reviews and validation workshops in early 2026.
This process helped establish a national institutional and technical framework for biodiversity monitoring.
Policy Alignment with Biodiversity Goals
India has updated its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) to align with the KMGBF.
The revised framework includes:
- 23 national biodiversity targets
- 142 monitoring indicators
- A national biodiversity monitoring system
Stakeholder consultations involved:
- Indigenous communities
- Women’s groups
- Youth representatives
- Local governments
- NGOs and private sector actors
While policy alignment has largely been completed, the report emphasises that implementation will determine whether India meets its 2030 biodiversity goals.
Assessment of Biodiversity Targets
1. Biodiversity-Inclusive Land and Sea-Use Planning (NBT1)
The report notes steady progress in biodiversity-inclusive spatial planning.
Key Developments
- Forest and tree cover:
827,357 sq km (25.17% of India’s geographical area) - Increase of 1,445.81 sq km between 2021 and 2023
- Nationwide wetland inventories completed
- Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plans implemented
- Eco-Sensitive Zones notified around most protected areas
- PARIVESH 2.0 digital platform streamlining environmental approvals
These measures show that ecosystem mapping and spatial planning are increasingly institutionalised.
However, the report does not clearly assess whether these measures have reduced habitat fragmentation outside protected areas.
2. Ecosystem Restoration (NBT2)
The report presents mixed outcomes regarding ecosystem restoration.
Land Degradation Status
According to the Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas:
- 29.77% of India’s geographical area (97 million hectares) is currently degraded.
Restoration Commitment
Under the Bonn Challenge, India has pledged to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030.
Current Progress
- 24.1 million hectares already restored or under restoration.
Additional Indicators
- Forest carbon stock increased to 7,285.5 million tonnes
- Mangrove cover increased modestly
- Bamboo area expanded by 1,540 sq km
Despite restoration progress, ongoing degradation suggests new environmental pressures continue to emerge.
Conservation and Species Recovery
Protected Area Coverage
India’s protected area network continues to expand.
However:
- Only slightly above 5% of India’s geographical area is formally designated as protected areas.
This is significantly below the 30×30 global conservation goal.
The government is exploring Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECM) outside traditional protected areas.
Species Conservation Achievements
The report highlights several flagship conservation successes:
- Tiger population: 3,167
- Asiatic lion population: Increasing
- One-horned rhinoceros: Stable or growing
Other conservation initiatives include:
- National snow leopard population assessment
- Vulture conservation breeding programmes
However, the report provides limited data on lesser-known species and other taxa, making comprehensive biodiversity evaluation difficult.
Biodiversity in Agricultural Landscapes
The report also assesses biodiversity integration into agricultural systems.
Key Findings
- Trees Outside Forests (TOF) now form a significant portion of total tree cover.
- Agroforestry covers approximately 8.65% of India’s geographical area.
These developments suggest increasing efforts to integrate biodiversity into production landscapes.
However, the report provides limited quantitative data on:
- Pesticide reduction
- Nutrient runoff
Both factors are major drivers of biodiversity loss in agricultural ecosystems.
Major Challenges Identified
1. Data Gaps
Biodiversity data is dispersed across multiple ministries, and several indicators lack standardised monitoring protocols.2. Monitoring Complexity
Data is collected at different intervals, and advances in satellite technology make long-term comparisons difficult.3. Land Degradation
Nearly one-third of India’s land continues to experience degradation.4. Climate Change Impacts
Extreme weather events such as:- floods
- droughts
- forest fires
5. Limited Conservation Coverage
Protected areas remain insufficient to meet global conservation targets.Will India Meet the 2030 Biodiversity Targets?
The report concludes that only two of the 23 national biodiversity targets are clearly on track:
- NBT1: Biodiversity-inclusive land-use planning
- NBT2: Ecosystem restoration
For most other targets, the report highlights policies and programmes but provides limited evidence of measurable progress.
Significant challenges remain in areas such as:
- conservation coverage
- invasive species control
- pollution reduction
- biodiversity protection outside protected areas.
Conclusion
India’s Seventh National Biodiversity Report demonstrates meaningful progress in policy alignment, ecosystem restoration and flagship species conservation. However, structural challenges such as land degradation, monitoring gaps, and limited conservation coverage continue to pose major obstacles.
Achieving the 2030 biodiversity targets under the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework will require stronger implementation, improved monitoring systems, and expanded conservation efforts across landscapes beyond protected areas.
UPSC PYQ
Q. Biodiversity forms the basis for human existence in the following ways:
- Soil formation
- Prevention of soil erosion
- Recycling of waste
- Pollination of crops
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
A. 1, 2 and 3 onl
B. 2, 3 and 4 only
C. 1 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: D
Explanation
Biodiversity is fundamental to human existence because it provides essential ecosystem services that sustain life.
1. Soil formation — Correct
Soil organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and earthworms break down organic matter and help in weathering of rocks. This process contributes to soil formation and improves soil fertility.
2. Prevention of soil erosion — Correct
Vegetation cover stabilizes the soil through root systems and organic matter, which bind soil particles together. This reduces soil erosion caused by wind and water.
3. Recycling of waste — Correct
Microorganisms and decomposers break down organic waste and dead organisms, converting them into nutrients that are reused in ecosystems.
4. Pollination of crops — Correct
Many plants depend on insects, birds, bats, and other animals for pollination. Pollination is essential for crop production and food security.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD):
- The Convention on Biological Diversity entered into force in 1993.
- One of the objectives of the CBD is the conservation of biological diversity.
- The CBD aims to promote fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D
Explanation
- Statement 1 is correct: The Convention on Biological Diversity came into force on 29 December 1993.
- Statement 2 is correct: Conservation of biological diversity is one of the three main objectives of the CBD.
- Statement 3 is correct: The CBD also aims at fair and equitable sharing of benefits from the use of genetic resources.
