China News / Don't work, have children... Chinese people ordered to increase population

China News: There was a time when China was known for its "one child policy". But now the situation has changed. The Chinese government, worried about the decline in population, is now openly telling its citizens - quit work, get married and have children. Not only this, the government is now giving various concessions for this.

Rain of holidays

In many provinces of the country, the duration of marriage leave has been increased from three days to 20 to 30 days. Sichuan, which is China's most populous province, is now giving 20 days leave for marriage. If the couple also undergoes a medical checkup before marriage, then they will be given an additional 5 days leave - that too with full salary. That is, a total of 25 days of paid leave.

Similarly, marriage leave has been increased to 18 days in Shandong, while provinces like Shanxi and Gansu have increased it even further to 30 days. The proposal is currently open for public opinion until June 2025.

Declining marriages and falling birth rate

The biggest reason for these changes is the declining marriage and birth rate in the country. Only 18.1 lakh marriages were registered in the first quarter of 2025, which is 8% less than last year. This number is the lowest since 1980.

The decrease in the number of marriages has had a direct impact on the birth rate. Young people no longer want to get married until they are ready to take responsibility for a child. Career pressure, economic instability, and an increasing desire for personal freedom have weakened the concept of traditional marriage.

Other steps of the government

The government is now simplifying the process of marriage registration. Now citizens can register marriage in any city—hukou i.e. household registration is not required. Along with this, maternity and paternity leave is also being increased. A plan is also being worked on to provide financial assistance to some companies for these leaves from the government.

Will holidays be enough?

However, experts believe that just increasing holidays will not solve the problem. Unless the expenditure on basic needs like housing, children's education, and health facilities is reduced, the decision to get married and have children will not become easy.