Hohhot’s Childcare Subsidies and Free Milk Program to Encourage Birth Rates

China’s Hohhot has unveiled childcare subsidies and a free milk program for mothers to address declining birth rates amidst a demographic crisis. These measures are part of a national effort to encourage couples to marry and have children, offering substantial financial incentives for parenting. The challenges arise from past policies limiting childbearing and the rising costs of family life.

In a bid to combat declining birth rates, China’s Hohhot city has introduced comprehensive childcare subsidies and a program offering free milk to new mothers. This initiative is part of a broader governmental strategy, with over twenty provincial administrations implementing similar measures aimed at encouraging marriages and childbearing among young couples. The move comes as China’s population continues to decline, marking its third consecutive year of decrease amid significant drops in marriage rates.

The unprecedented demographic challenges facing China stem from the legacy of the one-child policy (1980-2015), alongside rapid urbanization and the increasing expenses associated with childrearing. In recent years, the government has allowed families to have up to three children, yet birth rates remain low. At a recent parliamentary meeting, Premier Li Qiang highlighted the importance of childcare subsidies and free preschool education to stimulate higher birth rates.

Hohhot’s initiatives include a one-time payment of 10,000 yuan (approximately $1,382.51) for families welcoming their first child, with annual subsidies of 10,000 yuan for a second child until age five and 10,000 yuan yearly for a third child until age ten. These financial incentives are designed to significantly alleviate the financial burden on families. Additionally, new mothers giving birth after March 1 will receive a daily cup of free milk as part of the “One cup of milk fertility care action for mothers” along with an electronic voucher worth 3,000 yuan from local dairy companies.

The measures introduced in Hohhot underscore China’s urgent response to its declining birth rates, characterized by targeted financial incentives and support for new families. By promoting both direct financial assistance and nutritional support for mothers, authorities aim to encourage more young couples to consider marriage and children, addressing the demographic challenges posed by decades of restrictive family planning policies. As various provinces adopt similar strategies, the success of these initiatives will be pivotal in shaping China’s demographic future.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com