Here’s a breakdown of the data in the provided text:
Key Findings:
Singapore’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) remains low: The preliminary TFR for 2024 was 0.97, the same as in 2023. This is the second consecutive year the TFR has been below 1.
“Dragon Year Effect” is diminishing: Ms. Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, stated that the conventional boost in births during the Chinese zodiac Dragon Year is weakening. This is attributed to generational shifts in attitudes and priorities among young couples.
Ancient Dragon Year Birth Trends:
in 2011, 36,178 babies were born.
In 2012 (Year of the Dragon), 38,641 babies were born, an increase of 6.8%.
in 2000 (Year of the Dragon),44,765 babies were born,an 8.3% increase from 1999.
* Government Initiatives: The government has implemented various measures over the past two decades to increase the birth rate. The “Large Families scheme,” announced in february, provides more financial benefits and support for families with three or more young children.
In essence, the text highlights singapore’s ongoing challenge with low birth rates, noting that even traditionally auspicious years for childbirth are no longer significantly boosting the numbers, likely due to changing societal norms.
