Several political leaders have termed the suggestion as regressive, while demographic experts argue that reversing family planning was unwelcome

Mohan Bhagwat referenced modern demographic studies, stating that when a community's fertility rate falls below 2.1, the society faces the risk of extinction.

Mohan Bhagwat's remarks on increasing India's fertility rate sparked political backlash, with opposition leaders raising concerns about economic challenges facing families and the government's alleged failure to create employment opportunities.

Expressing concern over declining population growth, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said the total fertility rate in India should be at least 3, well above the fertility rate of 2.1 per cent that is considered as the population replacement rate.

Referring to India’s population policy, which was established around 1998 or 2002, he highlighted that it stipulates the population growth rate should not fall below 2.1. He further emphasised that a growth rate of at least 3 is necessary for societal survival,

The RSS chief said the population policy of India, decided around 1998 or 2002, says that the population growth rate should not be below 2.1

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat urged Indian families to have at least three children, citing demographic science. His remarks, linking population stability to survival, drew sharp criticism from opposition parties amid ongoing debates on population policies.