Kerala achieved its demographic transition much earlier than the rest of India. The state transitioned from high birth and death rates to low ones well before other Indian states.
The transition was driven by social factors, not primarily economic ones. Unlike the traditional demographic transition theory which links the transition to industrialization and high per capita income, Kerala's success is attributed to its high female literacy, widespread access to healthcare, and a more equitable social structure.
Kerala has a very low birth rate and death rate, and a Total Fertility Rate (TFR) that is below the replacement level. This means that the population is not naturally replacing itself, which has led to a slow population growth rate and, in some districts, even a negative growth rate.
The demographic transition has led to a rapid aging of the population. With declining fertility and increasing life expectancy, the proportion of elderly people in the state is growing significantly, leading to social and economic challenges.
The state's high out-migration, particularly of young people, further contributes to its unique demographic profile. This has led to a reliance on remittances and a labor shortage, which is being filled by in-migrants from other states.
