Spatio-temporal dimension of fertility and its determinants in Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu, India

Jeetendra D. Soni, Jawaharlal Nehru University
Moumita Basu, Jawaharlal Nehru University
Atul Mishra, Jawaharlal Nehru University

This paper makes an attempt to understand the variation in fertility behaviour, its determinants and spatio-temporal dimensions in India. A turning point in Indian fertility behaviour has been observed since 1960s with the emergence of regional variations in it, which is discernible from various empirical studies. To identify the causes behind the emergence of such spatial differentials, a comparative analysis of regions with extremities in their performance of demographic characteristics can give us a better insight. For this study, two states, Tamil Nadu exhibiting a promising and Rajasthan showing unimpressive demographic characteristics have been compared. The nature and magnitude of influence of pertinent determinants on fertility behaviour have been established with statistical methods. Here, social factors emerged as most important determinants followed by economic factors. On the basis of the findings of this study, an endeavor is made in formulating relevant and effective future strategies for study areas.