Early marriage, 3 children essential for India’s demographic stability: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat
Babushahi Bureau
Mumbai (Maharashtra), February 8, 2026: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has advocated a three-child family model as essential for maintaining social equilibrium and long-term demographic stability, cautioning against celebrating declining fertility rates. He said experts in medicine and population studies have consistently warned that population growth falling below sustainable levels could pose serious challenges for society.
Bhagwat made the remarks during the second session of an interactive lecture series titled ‘100 Years of the RSS: New Horizons’, held in Mumbai. Addressing questions related to India’s population trends, he rejected the idea of promoting a one-child norm and stressed that population decline should not be mistaken for progress.
Highlighting the link between family structure and social wellbeing, Bhagwat said doctors recommend marriage between the ages of 19 and 25 and raising three children, noting that such a family structure contributes to better physical health, emotional balance, and harmony within households. He added that growing up with three siblings helps children develop better ego management and reduces the likelihood of future family divisions.
The RSS chief observed that while India’s official population replacement rate is pegged at 2.1, this figure is largely statistical. In practical terms, he said, demographic balance is achieved when families have three children, as fractional numbers do not translate into real-life planning.
Citing population scientists, Bhagwat warned that fertility rates falling below 2.3 indicate demographic decline rather than advancement. He underlined that marriage should not be viewed merely as a personal or physical arrangement, but as a social institution that carries responsibilities toward family and society.
“Marriage is not only about companionship between two individuals. It also involves a duty to society. If population levels fall below a sustainable threshold, it creates long-term problems,” Bhagwat said, reiterating the need for a balanced and responsible approach to population growth.