Scheme to stop steep decline in Parsi population enters phase two in Mumbai

According to the 2011 Census, there are 57,264 Parsis in India, down from 69,601 in 2001.

The second phase of the Jiyo Parsi scheme, which aims to stop the steep decline of India’s Parsi-Zoroastrian population, was launched at a function in Fort on Saturday.

While the country’s population has tripled in more than 60 years, the number of Parsis fell by almost 50% from what it was in 1941. (HT)

According to the 2011 Census, there are 57,264 Parsis in India, down from 69,601 in 2001.

While the country’s population has tripled in more than 60 years, the number of Parsis fell by almost 50% from what it was in 1941.

The Parzor Foundation and Madison BMB along with Bombay Parsi Panchayat, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai and Federation of Zoroastrian Anjumans of India launched phase two of Jiyo Parsi campaign.

The scheme, launched on September 24, 2013, adopted scientific medical protocols and structured interventions to stabilise and increase the population of Parsis in India, including fertility treatment for couples who are unable to have children.

In phase two, the community intends to tackle the issue, not on a scientific, but a psychological front, as they would spread the message among its youth that they can handle their work while also managing their life.

The government said it is willing to provide a helping hand by sanctioning funds, spreading awareness through social media.