This paper examines fertility and mortality trends in Southern
Asia and their consequences for changes in age structure, dependency
ratio, population ageing and feminization of the elderly
population. It highlights challenges and opportunities brought
about by the demographic transition. In particular the paper
suggests ways in which countries in Southern Asia can reap the
benefits of the “demographic dividend”, which is a one-time
“window of opportunity” that countries in the region should
fully exploit. This is particularly evident when looking towards
future demographic trends in the region in which a number of
countries in Southern Asia will need to deal with the challenges
faced by ageing populations. In preparing for such a future, there
is a need to start formulating policies for the elderly today.