China Implements Childcare Subsidies and Support to Increase Birth Rates
China’s Hohhot has announced childcare subsidies, including 10,000 yuan for the first child and free daily milk for new mothers, in an effort to counter declining birth rates. This initiative adds to measures adopted by over 20 provinces following population decreases and marriage rate declines. Premier Li Qiang emphasized the importance of these subsidies during a recent parliamentary session.
China’s Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia, recently introduced a series of childcare subsidies aimed at revitalizing its declining population. These measures include providing new mothers with a daily cup of free milk to support their well-being. Such initiatives have been adopted by over 20 provincial-level administrations across the country, as policymakers are keen to encourage marriages and childbearing among younger generations.
The demographic challenges facing China are significant, with the population declining for three consecutive years and a record 20% drop in marriages. This situation stems largely from the past enforcement of China’s one-child policy from 1980 to 2015, along with rapid urban growth and the prohibitive costs of raising children. Following the relaxation of restrictions to allow three children since 2021, the government is eager to reverse these trends.
During the recent annual meeting of China’s parliament, Premier Li Qiang outlined the government’s commitment to childcare subsidies and free preschool education as part of efforts to increase the birth rate. An action plan released asserted the need to “study and establish a childcare subsidy system” to support family growth.
In Hohhot, couples will receive a one-time payment of 10,000 yuan (approximately $1,382.51) for their first child and a continuing annual subsidy of the same amount for the second child until the child reaches five. Additionally, families with a third child can expect an annual subsidy until the child’s tenth birthday, potentially amounting to nearly double the annual income of local residents.
As part of its initiative, Hohhot has also introduced the “One cup of milk fertility care action for mothers,” providing a daily cup of milk for mothers who give birth after March 1. Eligible mothers will also be granted electronic vouchers worth 3,000 yuan from local dairy companies Yili and China Mengniu Dairy.
In conclusion, Hohhot’s new childcare subsidies and supportive measures for mothers seek to address China’s demographic challenges by promoting childbirth and assisting families financially. These initiatives reflect a broader national strategy to counteract declines in population growth while fostering a more supportive environment for young couples considering marriage and parenthood.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
