India's Demographic Dilemma: Navigating the Perilous Path to Prosperity Amid Rapid Aging

India stands at a critical demographic crossroads, facing the unprecedented challenge of an aging population before achieving full economic maturity. While the nation currently benefits from a youthful demographic dividend, projections indicate a dramatic shift: by 2050, over 20% of India's population will be aged 60 or older. This accelerated aging trajectory, occurring at lower per capita income levels than historically observed in developed nations, presents profound economic and social risks. The window for leveraging workforce expansion to fuel growth is narrowing rapidly, demanding urgent policy interventions. Key vulnerabilities include insufficient pension coverage, underdeveloped healthcare infrastructure for elderly care, and potential labor shortages in critical sectors. However, strategic opportunities exist through productivity enhancement, technology adoption in elder care, and reforms to extend working lives. Success will require coordinated action across healthcare, social security, and labor market domains to transform this demographic challenge into sustainable development. The coming decade will determine whether India can implement the structural reforms necessary to secure prosperity before its demographic advantage diminishes.