70% youth population of India prefer pets over kids: Report

A recent survey has revealed a striking shift in the preferences of Indian youth, with 70% expressing a preference for having pets over children. This trend marks a significant departure from the global average, where 47% of young adults favor pets. The data comes amid India’s birth rate, which has fallen to its lowest ever, sparking concerns over the country’s future demographic makeup.

The survey highlights a growing number of young Indians choosing pets as companions instead of opting for parenthood. Experts suggest that this shift is driven by several factors, including economic constraints, lifestyle changes, and the rising popularity of pets as emotional support animals.

According to Dr. Anjali Mehta, a sociologist at Delhi University, young adults find pets to be less demanding and more adaptable to their fast-paced lives. "Pets provide emotional support and companionship, without the long-term financial and personal commitments that come with raising children," Dr. Mehta noted.

While the trend is not exclusive to India, the country’s figures stand out in comparison to the global 47% preference for pets. This stark difference points to a unique cultural shift in Indian society, where pet ownership has grown into a significant industry. The pet care sector has boomed, with an increasing number of young people investing in premium pet products, including food, healthcare, and accessories.

Economics also plays a key role in this shift. The rising cost of living, including housing, education, and general expenses, makes raising children a far more costly and demanding choice for many young adults. "Raising a child involves significant financial commitments, something many of India’s young generation is not prepared for," explained Dr. Mehta.

This shift towards pet ownership also ties into the country’s overall demographic concerns. With a falling birth rate, India’s future workforce, as well as its economic stability, are now under scrutiny. While this new preference for pets over children reflects changing societal norms, it could also signal challenges related to the country’s long-term population dynamics.