Answer: 

According to projections by the World Population Prospects (UN), India has surpassed China as the world's most populous nation. This rapid population growth will have a significant impact on poverty scenarios in India.

(Numbers in parentheses refer to total population in millions)

•       Strain on resources: With a growing population, the demand for resources such as food, water, and energy increases. The inadequate supply of resources to meet the needs of the growing population can lead to poverty, particularly among the low-income population.
•       Unemployment: High population growth can lead to a higher demand for jobs, which may not be met by the available employment opportunities. This can lead to unemployment, particularly among the youth, which contributes to a vicious cycle of poverty.
•       Environmental degradation: Rapid population growth can lead to environmental degradation, such as deforestation, air, and water pollution, which can have a disproportionate impact on the poor.
•       Pressure on infrastructure: Rapid population growth can also place pressure on infrastructure, such as housing, transportation, and healthcare. In India, where there is already a shortage of affordable housing, a growing population can exacerbate the housing crisis and lead to overcrowding and slum formation.
•       High population below the poverty line: They add to high level of illiteracy, poor health care facilities which leads to poor Human capital which leads to poverty.
•       Rural Scenario: Increased number of people in agricultural families results in decreased portion of divided land among the family members causing lower incomes which push them in poverty.

•       Population control: The government should invest more resources in promoting family planning, increasing access to contraception, and increasing awareness about reproductive health.

o   For instance, the National Family Welfare Programme provides access to contraceptives and reproductive health services.

•       Employment generation: The government should create employment opportunities by investing in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and promote entrepreneurship and small businesses.

o   For example, expand the scope of MGNREGA to urban areas as well.

•       Improved healthcare infrastructure: Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural areas, can help address the health needs of a growing population.

o   For instance, expanding access to primary healthcare, improving the quality of healthcare services, and implementing preventive healthcare measures.

•       Social protection: Providing social protection to vulnerable populations such as the poor, women, and children can help reduce poverty.

o   For instance, the government should provide basic services such as education, healthcare, and sanitation, and provide social safety nets such as cash transfers and food subsidies.

•       Investment in education and skill development: Enhancing the quality of education and providing skill development opportunities can equip the growing population with the necessary skills for employment and economic productivity.

Addressing population growth and its impact on poverty requires a holistic approach that involves policies such as family planning programs, education programs, poverty alleviation programs, create employment opportunities, and provide social protection to vulnerable populations. Implementing these policies will require political will, resources, and collaboration between various stakeholders.