Changing Family Structure of India

The family as a social institution has been undergoing change. Both in its structure and functions changes have taken place. In India, as in many traditional societies, the family has been not only the center of social and economic life, but also the primary source of support for the family members. The increasing commercialization of the economy and the development of the infrastructure of the modern state have introduced significant change in the family structure in India in the 20^th century. Specially, the last few decades have witnessed important alterations in family life. India's fertility rate has fallen, and couples have begun to bear children at a later age. At the same time, life expectancy has increased, resulting in more elderly people who need care. All of these changes are taking place in the context of increased urbanization, which is separating children from elders and contributing disintegration of family-based support systems. This paper critically examines the impact of various contributing factors on Indian family structure.