As per India’s National Population Policy, 2000, by which one of the following years is it our long-term objective to achieve population stabilization?

Answer: (c) 2045

The National Population Policy 2000 set a long-term goal of a stable population by 2045.

The idea

Population stabilisation means population size becomes broadly steady as additions and losses balance. It differs from reaching replacement fertility. A young age structure can keep population growing after fertility falls, so a policy can set different dates for these two goals.

Health and contraception needs are addressed → Fertility falls towards replacement level → Large young cohorts still enter childbearing ages → Population momentum sustains growth → Age structure gradually adjusts → Population may later stabilise

The trap

Replacement fertility (TFR 2.1) was the medium-term goal for 2010.

Also know

The National Population Policy 2000 separated immediate service needs, a medium-term replacement-fertility goal and a long-term stabilisation goal. Its dates are policy targets, not proof that the targets were achieved. Total fertility rate, birth rate and population growth rate measure different things.