| Article Title |
Demographic Dividend and Emerging Ageing in Rural Bankura: A Long-Term Analysis of Age Structure Dynamics and Sustainability Implications. |
| Author(s) | Rajesh Mondal, Kuntal Kanti Chattoraj. |
| Country | India |
| Abstract | The age structure of a population significantly influences socio-economic development and sustainability. This study examines changes in the age-sex structure of rural Bankura District, West Bengal, from 1961 to 2011, using data from District Census Handbooks. The analysis covers age-sex pyramids, broad age groups (0-14, 15-59, and 60+ years), and dependency ratios to assess demographic transition and implications for sustainable rural development. Results show a decline in the young population (0-14 years) from 41.18% in 1961 to 27.41% in 2011, reflecting fertility reduction. The working-age group (15-59 years) rose from 53.21% to 63.37%, while the elderly (60+) nearly doubled from 5.57% to 9.18%, due to better healthcare and longevity. The dependency ratio fell sharply from 87.86% to 57.74%, indicating a favourable shift toward a productive age structure. Rural Bankura is in a demographic window of opportunity with an expanding working-age population, which can boost economic growth if supported by jobs and skills. However, the rising elderly share poses challenges for healthcare and social support in resource-limited rural settings. Effective policies to harness the demographic dividend while preparing for ageing are vital for sustainable development. |
| Area | Population Geography |
| Issue | Volume 3, Issue 1 (January - March 2026) |
| Published | 2026/03/31 |
| How to Cite | Mondal, R., & Chattoraj, K.K.. (2026). Demographic Dividend and Emerging Ageing in Rural Bankura: A Long-Term Analysis of Age Structure Dynamics and Sustainability Implications.. Cosmos: A Journal of Geography, 3(1), 68-82. |
Cosmos: A Journal of Geography
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