Why Some Indians Choose Not to Marry in the Modern World

Introduction

The decision to marry is deeply personal and varies widely across cultures and individuals. However, in the context of modern India, some people choose not to marry, driven by a combination of social, national, and personal reasons. This article explores these reasons and provides examples from notable figures who have chosen a single life, illustrating that it is a noble and logical choice for those seeking a broader purpose in life.

Reasons for Choosing Not to Marry

1. Social Reasons

A. Population Growth

The world's population is rapidly increasing, and this trend is projected to continue. As of 2023, the population has already surpassed 7.9 billion and is expected to reach 8, 9, or even 10 billion by 2050. The depletion of natural resources such as fossil fuels and minerals is a pressing concern. The finite nature of these resources means that we are running out of them at an alarming rate, which could lead to severe economic and environmental consequences in the near future. A smaller per capita area is available for each individual, as urbanization and human consumption continue to rise.

B. Automation and the Workforce

Automation and technology advancements are eliminating human jobs at an unprecedented rate. This trend is expected to increase, leading to widespread job losses and potential economic depression akin to the Great Depression of the 1930s. Industries are already experiencing large-scale layoffs, which will only escalate as the pace of automation accelerates.

2. National Reasons

A. Overpopulation in India

India's population is the largest in the world, and it continues to grow. Overpopulation is a primary root cause of several social and economic issues, including poverty, unemployment, and illiteracy. The current sex ratio in India is around 950 women for every 1,000 men, making it even more challenging for men in the 20-30 age group to find partners, meaning 12.5% of men will remain unmarried. Automation and economic pressures are leading to a rise in layoffs, particularly in India. This trend will only worsen, leaving young people with fewer job opportunities.

B. Reservation and Tax Policies

To address the social issues caused by overpopulation, the government has implemented various reservation policies and segmented tax slabs. These measures aim to distribute resources more equitably but can sometimes exacerbate the problem. The government has also banned schools from admitting a second child, which can lead to overcrowding in public infrastructure and increased strain on resources.

3. Personal Reasons

A. Career and Personal Fulfillment

The author, who has no plans of retirement, wants to work until the end of his life. This is possible only if he is not dependent on a spouse or child. Getting married at a young age (before 30) means that the individual has only 10 years to pursue personal goals before starting a family, which may not be justifiable for many. If both spouses earn the same amount, the household's per capita income is lower with a child compared to when the person is single, which could hinder personal growth and financial stability.

B. Personal Growth and Development

To achieve personal growth, one needs to invest in oneself. If a person has a family to support, this can detract from their ability to focus on personal development. The author believes that investing in oneself is crucial, and he does not want to burden others with his weaknesses, which have caused him much suffering.

C. Time Management and Personal Pursuits

The author aspires to dedicate all his time to society, gaming, adventure sports, and fitness. These interests are too diverse to fit into his 24-hour day, emphasizing the need to prioritize his time carefully.

Examples of Successful Single Figures

Many notable figures in Indian history and contemporary society have chosen not to marry, focusing on their careers and personal goals:

APJ Abdul Kalam: A highly-respected former president of India, known for his contributions to the Indian space and satellite programs. Atal Bihari Vajpayee: A former Prime Minister of India and a key figure in the Bharatiya Janata Party's rise to power. Ratan Tata: A renowned industrialist who led Tata Sons, a multinational conglomerate. Dr. Homi J. Bhabha: An influential nuclear scientist who played a key role in the Indian nuclear program. Sushmita Sen: The first Indian Miss Universe and a prominent actress. M. Visvesvaraya: An engineer and recipient of the highest civilian honor in India, the Bharat Ratna, for his contributions to the Indian engineering community.

These individuals have demonstrated that a single life is not only possible but also can lead to significant achievements and contributions to society.

Conclusion

Choosing not to marry should not be viewed as a social stigma but as a valid and logical choice for individuals seeking to maximize their personal and professional growth. Regardless of one's personal decision, it is essential to respect and understand the choices made by others, as every individual's journey is unique.