When is the possibility of a demographic dividend greatest?

Correct answer: When the working-age share rises relative to dependent age groups

A demographic dividend becomes possible when the working-age population forms a larger share relative to children and older people. With fewer dependants per potential worker, families and governments may have more resources for education, health, saving, investment, and productive employment. This opportunity is not automatic; it becomes a benefit only when jobs, skills, health, and suitable policies allow the working-age group to be productive. Therefore, option A is correct.

A rapidly rising elderly share or child dependency increases the number of dependants and can raise the support burden. A falling working-age share does the opposite of creating a dividend. The key idea is the dependency ratio and its relationship with age structure. The dividend is a period of opportunity, not a guaranteed result of population change alone; effective planning and inclusive employment are needed to convert it into economic growth.