Vladimir Putin thinks a family with three children has to become a norm for Russia

The President of Russia Vladimir Putin said about the necessity to make regional demographic programs in his annual Message to Federal Assembly.

“Russia has to be strong and assured and for that we have to be more numerous and better in morality, competences, work and creation. The share of young active, able-bodied population of Russia at the age of 20-40 is one of the highest among developed countries but if we stand idle the share of this category can reduce 1,5 times already in 20 years” – he said.

According to the President of Russia the demographic programs, approved in the last decade, still work. Russian population is stable and even started growing. In January-September 2012 population of the country increased by more than 200 thousand people. At that natality is registered for five months in succession for the first time for the whole newest history of the country.

Vladimir Putin suggested that governors of Russian regions should work up their own programs for demographic development.

“Demographers say that the choice in favor of the second kid is already a potential choice in favor of the third and it is important that our families have to make such step. In spite of doubts, expressed by some experts, I am sure that a family with three kids has to become a norm for Russia but first we have much to do to make so” – the President of Russia stated.

“By the beginning of 2000 Russian population reduced every year by one million people” – Vladimir Putin reported – “And it seemed impossible to halt this catastrophe. Demographic forecast sounded as the final verdict for the country. Nonetheless we’ve managed to overcome this destructive tendency. After launching our demographic programs population of the country stabilized. It started growing since 2010. This is our key achievement”.

Demographic indices in Bashkortostan started to improve even earlier. Since 2008 birth rate increased by 7,5%. Reduction of death rate by 4,5% resulted in stable natality for the last three years. Average life span increased from 68 to 70 years.