If the average age of marriage rises in a region, what is the likely effect in the context of the National Population Policy?

Correct answer: Early motherhood will decrease

Correct answer: C — early motherhood is likely to decrease when the average age of marriage rises. A later marriage generally shortens the period during which a woman may have children at very young ages and can give her more time to continue education, develop skills, and understand health information. It may also reduce early pregnancy and its associated health risks. This supports the National Population Policy’s broader goals of maternal health, informed family decisions, and population stabilization. A is incorrect because a rise in marriage age does not end immunisation. B is incorrect because literacy does not automatically become zero; education may instead have more opportunity to continue. D is incorrect because a census is still needed to collect population information. Remember: later marriage is associated with less early motherhood, not with the disappearance of health or population programmes.