The ageing index in India has increased from 14% in 1951 to > 21% in 2001. With respect to this which of the following effects is/are correct? I. Decline in the proportion of child population. II. Increase in the proportion of old population. Select the correct answer from the codes given below:

The ageing index is a demographic indicator defined as the number of persons aged 60 years and above per 100 children below the age of 15 years [t3]. An increase in this index, as observed in India from 1951 to 2001, is a direct consequence of the demographic transition [t1][t2]. This transition involves two primary dimensions: 'ageing at the base' and 'ageing at the apex' [t2]. Ageing at the base is driven by declining fertility rates, which leads to a decline in the proportion of the child population (Statement I) [t2][t3]. Simultaneously, ageing at the apex is caused by increased longevity and reduced mortality, resulting in an increase in the proportion of the old population (Statement II) [t1][t2]. Census data confirms that the elderly population (60+) in India rose from approximately 5.1% in 1901 to 7.7% in 2001, while the younger age group's share has begun to decline from its peak [c4][t6].

Sources

1. [1] https://www.isec.ac.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/BKPAI%20Working%20paper%201.pdf
2. [2] https://ddceutkal.ac.in/Syllabus/MA_SOCIOLOGY/Paper_18.pdf
3. [3] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 13: Cultural Setting > AGE COMPOSITION > p. 95