Russian Government offers ₹1 lakh to minor girls for giving birth

  • Russia is struggling with a rapidly shrinking population and an aging demographic

  • 2.5 lakh Russian soldiers have died in the ongoing war with Ukraine

Moscow (Russia) – In a startling move, the Russian Government is encouraging young girls to become pregnant—to the extent that it has announced a payment of ₹1 lakh (approx.) for each girl to support childbirth and child-rearing. This scheme was launched in March 2025 across 10 regions of Russia. Although Russia ranks 9th globally in population size, it faces a severe demographic crisis, with a declining birth rate and a rapidly aging population. Initially, the scheme was limited to adult women (above 18), but now it has been extended to minor girls as well. The ongoing war with Ukraine, which began around 3.5 years ago, has claimed the lives of an estimated 2,50,000 Russian soldiers. Furthermore, the war has triggered an exodus of educated youth, especially the younger generation, fleeing the country.

What do the statistics show ?

1. In 2023, Russia’s average fertility rate was 1.41 children per woman.

2. To maintain a stable population, a fertility rate of 2.05 is required.

3. In response, the Russian Government has adopted a ‘Pronatalist Policy’—which means actively encouraging citizens to have more children in order to build larger families.

4. Public opinion is divided: 43% support this policy, while 40% oppose it.

President Vladimir Putin’s stand

Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly emphasized that a large population helps build a stronger army, which in turn makes the country more powerful.