Hohhot has introduced childcare subsidies and free milk for new mothers amid declining birth rates in China. Premier Li Qiang announced these initiatives during parliament, aiming to encourage families to grow amidst historical demographic challenges. The city will provide significant financial incentives for each child born, alongside additional maternal support through daily milk provisions.
In an effort to combat declining birth rates, Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia, recently announced various childcare subsidies, including a daily provision of free milk to new mothers. This initiative is part of a broader policy across over 20 provincial administrations in China aimed at encouraging young couples to marry and have children, as reported by the official Xinhua news agency.
China’s population has decreased for the third consecutive year in 2024, corresponding with a record 20% decline in marriages. These alarming trends are attributed to the long-term effects of the one-child policy, rapid urbanization, and rising living costs that dissuade family expansion. To address these challenges, the government has allowed couples to have up to three children since 2021.
During the recent annual parliament session, Premier Li Qiang unveiled plans to introduce childcare subsidies and free preschool education as part of strategies to enhance birth rates. An action plan emphasized the need to establish a solid childcare subsidy system to aid families.
The city of Hohhot offers considerable financial incentives: couples will receive a one-off payment of 10,000 yuan (approximately $1,382) for their first child and an annual subsidy of 10,000 yuan for a second child until the age of five. For couples with a third child, the annual subsidy remains at 10,000 yuan until the child turns ten, amounting to about twice the local annual income.
Furthermore, Hohhot has introduced a program called the “One Cup of Milk Fertility Care Action for Mothers,” which provides free daily milk to mothers who give birth after March 1. They will also receive an electronic voucher worth 3,000 yuan, redeemable at two major dairy companies, Yili and China Mengniu Dairy.
China’s recent initiatives in Hohhot reflect a comprehensive approach to address declining birth rates through financial support and healthcare benefits for new parents. The multifaceted strategies include both subsidies and provisions for maternal care, signifying the government’s commitment to reversing the demographic decline, prompted by historical policies and socioeconomic factors. These measures aim to create a more favorable environment for family growth and ensure sustainable population levels in the future.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
