Reasons for delayed marriage among women in Mizoram

Globally, fertility rates are declining, driven by multiple factors. One major contributor is the increasing age at marriage, especially among women-a trend also observed in Mizoram. This study aims to identify the key reasons behind delayed marriage among women in the state. A structured online questionnaire was administered to unmarried women aged 23 and above during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. A total of 2,509 responses were collected. The minimum age threshold of 23 was based on the mean age at marriage in Mizoram, as reported by the District Level Household Survey-4 (DLHS-4). The study found that difficulty in finding a suitable partner, higher education and unemployment are significant factors contributing to marriage postponement. As women are the child bearers, delayed marriage affects fertility and could lead to a population decline, potentially impacting the state's economy. We recommend that policymakers raise awareness among young women about the risks associated with delayed marriage and late childbearing, including increased infertility and reduced chances of achieving desired fertility.