The CPI(M) has criticised the Andhra Pradesh government’s proposed population incentive policy, alleging that encouraging larger families without improving the living standards would push the society deeper into poverty and inequality.

Addressing the media here on Wednesday, CPI(M) State secretary V. Srinivasa Rao opposed Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s recent announcement offering ₹30,000 for the third child and ₹40,000 for the fourth.

The CPI(M) leader asked whether families struggling with unemployment, rising living costs, poor healthcare, malnutrition and job insecurity were in a position to raise large families responsibly.

Quoting from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019-21), he said Andhra Pradesh’s Infant Mortality Rate remained at 30 deaths per 1,000 live births, reflecting serious gaps in maternal and child healthcare. Nearly 63% of children aged below five years and about 59% of women in the State suffer from anaemia, he said.

The CPI(M) leader said private school fees and medical expenses had become unaffordable for the commoners. “Women bear the brunt of such policies as repeated childbirth may affect their careers, health and financial independence. These cash incentives could lead to increased pressure on women within families, “ he said.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao demanded that governments first strengthen public education and healthcare systems, improve nutrition among women and children, create stable employment opportunities, regulate working hours, expand maternity and childcare support, and enhance social security before encouraging population growth.