Since India gained independence in 1947, the population has increased from 336 million to approximately 1.5 billion, which has given rise to issues at many levels, such as public health, poverty, infection and others.
The doctor said, on World Population Day, which is observed every year on July 11, it is important to recognize that overpopulation in India has a profound impact on public health.
"This imbalance leads to overcrowding in hospitals, inadequate medical services and increased risk of infectious diseases due to poor sanitation and access to water," Bajaj told IANS.
"Furthermore, the decline in fertility rates, below replacement levels in many states, does not reduce the burden but rather highlights inequities in healthcare delivery," he said.
The consequences of overpopulation extend beyond health care, affecting air and water quality and increasing respiratory and waterborne diseases.
According to Bajaj, malnutrition and food shortages are rampant as resources struggle to keep pace with demand.
“Our health care system is weak, struggling to provide even basic care and effectively manage chronic conditions, which inevitably leads to high morbidity and mortality,” he said. "
The doctor noted that tackling these challenges requires not only immediate action but also "continued commitment to comprehensive public health strategies and sustainable development policies".
Bajaj also highlighted that there is a great need to advocate for equitable health care access and prioritize investment in health infrastructure to ensure a healthy future for all.
The doctor said, on World Population Day, which is observed every year on July 11, it is important to recognize that overpopulation in India has a profound impact on public health.
"This imbalance leads to overcrowding in hospitals, inadequate medical services and increased risk of infectious diseases due to poor sanitation and access to water," Bajaj told IANS.
"Furthermore, the decline in fertility rates, below replacement levels in many states, does not reduce the burden but rather highlights inequities in healthcare delivery," he said.
The consequences of overpopulation extend beyond health care, affecting air and water quality and increasing respiratory and waterborne diseases.
According to Bajaj, malnutrition and food shortages are rampant as resources struggle to keep pace with demand.
“Our health care system is weak, struggling to provide even basic care and effectively manage chronic conditions, which inevitably leads to high morbidity and mortality,” he said. "
The doctor noted that tackling these challenges requires not only immediate action but also "continued commitment to comprehensive public health strategies and sustainable development policies".
Bajaj also highlighted that there is a great need to advocate for equitable health care access and prioritize investment in health infrastructure to ensure a healthy future for all.
