Population Problem in Bangladesh
The population of a country is an asset, but it becomes a problem when the country can not afford to provide people with the basic necessities of life. Bangladesh is a small country. But it is burdened with a huge population. The total area of Bangladesh is 1,47,570 square kilometers. Our total population is about 120 million. So, the population problem is really a great malady for our country. Bangladesh is in fact one of the most populous countries in the world.
Bangladesh is a poor country but her population is still increasing by leaps and bounds. The rate of growth is about 1.48% every year. Our country cannot afford the necessary things such as food, shelter, medicine items of clothing, housing, and education for the increasing people. So, the population problem is now one of the greatest problems for our country. Naturally, the population of Bangladesh has created a serious problem and it is also a burning question for the country. So, food problems, health problems, malnutrition, environmental pollution, poverty, etc. are certain consequences of the population problem.
The population in Bangladesh is increasing by geometrical progression whereas agricultural production is increasing with Arithmetic progression. Polygamy, early marriage, illiteracy and the hope of more male children are the main causes of population problems. Our country mainly depends on her agriculture, but our agricultural production is still unsatisfactory on account of old and unscientific methods of cultivation. Due to overpopulation, the need for habitation, food and other things is getting acute. Moreover, we find natural calamities like floods, droughts, cyclones, etc. every year, these bear poverty for the country. The income per head decreases, land per head decreases, people remain unemployed, housing problem becomes acute, the balance of trade becomes unfavorable, etc. are the bad effects of the large population.
Besides, eighty percent of the population is illiterate. They know very little about family planning and cannot realize the tremendous effect of overpopulation. Due to social and religious superstitions, most of the people in Bangladesh are averse to family planning. It may be noted that illiteracy, polygamy, religious influences, the custom of early marriages are also responsible for the population problem of Bangladesh.
Proper education and an idea of the fair standard of living should be given to the people. Newspapers, television, and cinema are being regularly used popularise the idea of birth control and family planning. As a result, they will be fully aware of the evil effects of overpopulation.
Overpopulation is a great hindrance to all our development efforts. Population problem in Bangladesh is a number one national problem. It should be our only thinking that two children are enough for each family whether it be a male or a female. The educated and conscious people along with the government should come forward to rooting out this serious national problem. Awareness should be raised among the illiterate and village people. The sooner we can solve the problem, the better not only for us but also for our future generations.
