What was the actual population planning of Bangladesh and how it is going?
After the independence of Bangladesh in 1974, the first human population planning initiative was introduced and publicly declared in 1976. It was recommended during the five-year planning meeting that the population would stabilize at 100 million, and the total fertility rate would be reduced to 2 by the year 2000.
As of 2024 (an assumed year), Bangladesh’s population is estimated to be approximately 173,800,000, based on the 2022 census figure of 179,828,911.
The most recent human population planning policy was formulated in 2023. This policy introduced new regulations, such as human resource management, in addition to the existing emphasis on controlling the birth rate. The rationale behind these regulations was explained: Bangladesh is currently experiencing a demographic dividend due to a significant increase in the working-age population. Therefore, there is optimism that with proper guidance and training, sustainable economic development can be achieved regardless of the country’s population size.
Professor Md. Billal Hossen, the sole advisor on this matter from the Department of Population Studies at Dhaka University, stated that focusing solely on controlling the birth rate is an outdated policy. He emphasized that it is now crucial to concentrate on human resource management, which includes birth rate control as a component. He also highlighted that increasing the level of education and encouraging workforce participation are key factors in raising awareness among the population about birth rates.
Good subject. Thanks.
Thanks a lot