The correct option is It has been replaced by a policy allowing couples to have two children..
Explanation
The "One-child policy" was a population control measure implemented by the Chinese government to alleviate social, economic, and environmental problems associated with rapid population growth. It significantly altered the country's demographic profile.Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement It was introduced in the late 1950s. is Incorrect. The One-child policy was officially introduced in 1979 (late 1970s), not the late 1950s. The late 1950s were associated with the "Great Leap Forward" campaign.
- Statement It led to an increase in the sex ratio. is Incorrect. The policy exacerbated the traditional preference for sons, leading to sex-selective practices. This resulted in a decline in the sex ratio (females per 1000 males), creating a skewed demographic with significantly more males than females.
- Statement It has been replaced by a policy allowing couples to have two children. is Correct. To address the economic risks of an aging population and a shrinking workforce, the Chinese government abandoned the One-child norm. It was replaced by a universal two-child policy effective from January 1, 2016. (Note: In 2021, this was further relaxed to allow three children).
- Statement It had no impact on the age structure of the population. is Incorrect. The policy had a drastic impact on the age structure. It accelerated the demographic transition, leading to a rapidly aging population and an inverted age structure (the "4-2-1" problem), where fewer working-age individuals support a larger number of elderly dependents.
Key Takeaway
China's One-child policy (1979-2015) curbed population growth but caused long-term demographic challenges, including a gender imbalance and a reduction in the working-age population, prompting a shift to two-child and three-child policies.