China’s Hohhot introduces childcare subsidies and free milk for new mothers to counter declining birth rates. With a population drop for the third year and marriage rates plummeting, over 20 provinces are implementing similar measures to encourage childbearing. Hohhot’s initiatives include substantial financial support for families and free daily milk for mothers.
In a bid to reverse declining birth rates, Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia, has implemented new childcare subsidies and introduced a daily provision of free milk for new mothers. This initiative is part of a broader effort by over 20 provincial administrations in China to encourage marriage and childbearing among young couples, as reported by the official Xinhua news agency.
China’s population has decreased for the third consecutive year, exacerbated by a significant decline in marriages, which fell by 20%, marking the largest drop on record. This demographic decline is primarily attributed to the long-standing one-child policy, rapid urbanization, and escalating costs associated with raising children. Since 2021, couples have had the option to have up to three children.
During the recent annual parliamentary meeting, Premier Li Qiang underscored the need for childcare subsidies and free preschool education to stimulate birth rates further. Additionally, an action plan aimed at enhancing domestic consumption has highlighted the necessity of establishing a comprehensive childcare subsidy system.
Hohhot has proposed a substantial monetary incentive, offering new parents a one-time payment of 10,000 yuan ($1,382.51) for their first child, coupled with an annual payment of 10,000 yuan for a second child until the age of five. For a third child, parents will receive 10,000 yuan annually until the child reaches ten, an amount nearly double the average annual income in the city.
The city has also launched the “One Cup of Milk Fertility Care Action for Mothers,” which provides new mothers with a daily cup of free milk starting March 1. Furthermore, they will receive a 3,000 yuan electronic voucher from leading dairy companies, Yili and China Mengniu Dairy, to further support maternal health.
China’s significant demographic challenges have prompted the government, particularly in regions like Hohhot, to implement various incentives, including childcare subsidies and free provisions for mothers. By financially supporting families and promoting childbirth, the government aims to reverse declining birth rates influenced by historical policies and increasing living costs. These measures represent a critical attempt to address the ongoing population crisis.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
