A.P. CM Naidu’s call for third child is ‘pragmatic’, says TDP MP

TDP MP and national spokesperson Tenneti Krishna Prasad has said that Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s decision to provide incentives to people of the State to have a third child was borne out of a pragmatic view that reflected concerns over demographic decline. 

In a press release on Sunday (May 17, 2026), the Bapatla MP stated that Mr. Naidu first thinks as an economist and then as a politician. Mr. Naidu’s exhortation to the people to have more than three children was necessitated by the sliding demographic divide and the need to maintain a strong productive workforce for the future. 

Highlighting the global decline in fertility rates and its economic implications, Mr. Prasad said countries like Japan, China, and several European nations were facing shrinking populations due to falling Total Fertility Rates (TFR).  Even in south Indian States, the fertility rates have fallen below replacement levels, which was a matter of serious concern for the country’s long-term economic growth, he observed. 

Referring to India’s long-term economic aspirations, the MP said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has envisioned Viksit Bharat 2047 and India becoming the world’s leading economic power.  That goal could be achieved only if India continues to have a strong and productive workforce.

On Andhra Pradesh government’s initiatives, Mr. Prasad said the CM has already begun implementing promises aimed at supporting mothers and encouraging larger families.  Under the Talliki Vandanam scheme, financial assistance was being directly transferred to mothers for every child sent to school. 

“The government is also considering further incentives for women opting for a third child, including work – from – home opportunities, longer maternity leave, and financial support of Rs.30,000 (for third child), recognising the contribution of women to nation – building and economic growth”, Mr. Prasad added.