Rajasthan Cabinet approves changes to end 2-child restriction for local polls

The Rajasthan Cabinet has approved significant amendments to the existing two-child policy that governed local body elections in the state. This policy, which was first implemented in the early 1990s to address rising population concerns, restricted candidates from contesting if they had more than two children. At that time, Rajasthan was facing a high fertility rate of 3.6, prompting the need for such measures. However, the Cabinet's recent decision reflects a shift in the state's approach towards population control and electoral participation. The government aims to encourage broader representation in local governance by eliminating this restriction, which has been deemed outdated in the context of contemporary demographic realities. The move is expected to empower more individuals to engage in the political process, fostering inclusivity in local governance and potentially leading to more diverse leadership. This change aligns with ongoing discussions about balancing population management with democratic rights, providing a more equitable platform for candidates across the state.