To combat declining birth rates, China’s Hohhot has introduced childcare subsidies and initiated a program offering free milk for new mothers. With more than 20 provinces participating, the measures are meant to encourage marriage and childbearing, following a period of record-low marriages and population decline. Premier Li Qiang announced these efforts, aiming to provide substantial financial assistance to families.
In a bid to address declining birth rates, Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia, has introduced a range of childcare subsidies, including daily free milk for new mothers. This initiative is part of a broader effort by over 20 provincial administrations in China to incentivize young couples to marry and expand their families, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
China’s population has been declining for three consecutive years, with a record drop in marriages. This downturn can be attributed to the legacy of the one-child policy (1980-2015), rapid urbanization, and the rising costs associated with raising children. Since 2021, couples have been permitted to have up to three children.
During a recent parliamentary session, Premier Li Qiang announced new childcare subsidies and free preschool education aimed at reversing the declining birthrate. The action plan released further emphasized the need to develop a comprehensive childcare subsidy system to stimulate domestic consumption.
Hohhot’s new policies include a one-time payment of 10,000 yuan ($1,382.51) for the first child and an annual subsidy of 10,000 yuan for a second child until age five. For a third child, an annual subsidy of the same amount will be provided until the child turns ten, totaling approximately double the average annual income in the area.
In addition to financial support, Hohhot has launched the
China’s efforts to reverse declining birth rates include substantial childcare subsidies, as demonstrated by the initiatives from Hohhot and other provinces. With significant financial incentives and programs such as daily free milk for new mothers, China aims to encourage family growth amidst a challenging demographic landscape. This comprehensive approach highlights the government’s commitment to nurturing a sustainable population growth for the future.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
