Demographic Dividend and it’s Geopolitical Implications
The term “demographic dividend” refers to the economic growth potential that arises from a favorable shift in a country’s age structure, where the working-age population (typically 15–64 years) significantly outnumbers the dependent population (children below 15 and elderly above 64). This phenomenon offers a unique window of opportunity for nations to accelerate economic development, provided they harness it through strategic investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation. For a country like India and other Asian economies, the demographic dividend is a critical factor that can shape their economic trajectory and influence their geopolitical standing in the upcoming decades. However, this opportunity is not without challenges, and its mismanagement could instead lead to a demographic disaster.
India, with a population exceeding 1.4 billion as of February 2025, is currently in the midst of its demographic dividend phase, projected to peak around 2041. According to estimates, over 60% of India’s population falls within the working-age bracket, a stark contrast to aging economies like Japan, China, and several European nations. This youthful population provides India with a vast labor force, which, if skilled and employed effectively, can drive economic growth, increase productivity, and boost GDP. Other Asian economies, such as Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, are similarly positioned with youthful demographics, offering them a competitive edge in the global market.
The demographic dividend is crucial for several reasons. First, it enhances economic productivity. A larger working-age population means more individuals contributing to the economy through labor and innovation, as opposed to consuming resources as dependents. For instance, India’s burgeoning tech sector, manufacturing industries, and service-based economy stand to benefit immensely from this labor surplus. Second, it increases savings and investment potential. With fewer dependents to support, working-age individuals can save more, leading to higher capital accumulation, which can be reinvested into infrastructure, education, and technology—key drivers of long-term growth. Third, it fosters urbanization and industrialization, as young workers migrate to cities, fueling economic hubs like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Jakarta in Indonesia.
However, the demographic dividend is not an automatic boon. It requires proactive policies to translate population growth into economic gains. India, for example, must address its high youth unemployment rates (hovering around 23% in urban areas as per recent data) and skill gaps, with only 2.3% of its workforce having formal vocational training. Similarly, countries like Vietnam must scale up industrial capacity to absorb their young labor force, while the Philippines needs to tackle underemployment in its service-driven economy. Failure to create jobs and improve human capital could lead to social unrest, inequality, and wasted potential—a scenario seen in some African nations with youthful populations but weak governance.
To appreciate the demographic dividend’s significance, it’s useful to contrast India and youthful Asian economies with countries experiencing declining birth rates and aging populations, such as Japan, South Korea, and China. Japan’s fertility rate has plummeted to 1.3 births per woman, far below the replacement rate of 2.1, resulting in a shrinking workforce and a dependency ratio projected to reach 1:1 by 2050 (one worker per dependent). This has strained Japan’s economy, with labor shortages, rising healthcare costs, and a shrinking tax base. South Korea faces a similar crisis, with the world’s lowest fertility rate (0.78 in 2023), forcing reliance on automation and immigration debates. China, once a demographic powerhouse, is now grappling with the legacy of its one-child policy, with its working-age population declining since 2015 and an aging cohort set to burden its economy by 2035.
In contrast, India’s fertility rate, though declining to around 2.0, still sustains a growing workforce, giving it a 20–30-year window to capitalize on its demographic advantage. This disparity positions India and other Asian economies as potential global labor and innovation hubs, while aging economies struggle to maintain economic dynamism.
The demographic dividend’s impact extends beyond economics into the geopolitical sphere, shaping the power dynamics of the 21st century. First, a robust demographic dividend can enhance India’s soft and hard power. Economically, a productive workforce could propel India to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030, as projected by some analysts, strengthening its influence in international forums like the G20 and BRICS. Militarily, a large, young population provides a steady supply of recruits, bolstering India’s defense capabilities amid regional tensions with China and Pakistan. Similarly, Indonesia’s growing economic clout, driven by its 270 million-strong population, could elevate its role in ASEAN, countering China’s dominance in the Indo-Pacific.
Second, the demographic dividend could shift global supply chains and investment flows toward youthful Asian economies. As China’s labor force shrinks, multinational corporations are already pivoting to India and Southeast Asia for manufacturing and services. India’s “Make in India” initiative and Vietnam’s export-driven growth exemplify this trend, potentially reducing Western reliance on China and reshaping trade alliances. This economic leverage could translate into geopolitical bargaining power, allowing these nations to negotiate better terms in climate agreements, technology transfers, and security pacts.
Third, the demographic dividend could influence migration patterns and soft power projection. India’s diaspora, already 18 million strong, amplifies its cultural and economic influence globally. As aging economies like Europe and Japan face labor shortages, immigration from youthful Asian countries could increase, fostering stronger bilateral ties but also raising questions about brain drain if skilled workers emigrate en masse.
However, the geopolitical benefits hinge on managing internal challenges. India’s demographic dividend could falter if regional disparities (e.g., high fertility in northern states vs. aging southern states) and social issues like gender inequality persist. Similarly, political instability in countries like Myanmar or Bangladesh could undermine their demographic potential, creating regional security risks rather than advantages.
What are hana log segments?
What are HANA Log Segments?
When we make changes in SAP, the data usually first gets saved in log segments, then data from log segments gets transferred to data volume once it is in status BackedUp whenever a savepoint is triggerred and then the logs gets state free, so hana logs can have below states.
States of HANA Log Segments
| State | Description |
| Writing | Currently writing to this segment. |
| Closed | Segment is closed by the writer. |
| Truncated | Truncated, but not yet backed up. Backup will remove it. |
| BackedUp | Segment is already backed up, but a savepoint has not yet been written. Therefore it needs to be kept for instance recovery. |
| Free | Segment is free for reuse. |
when we set parameter log_mode = normal and enable_auto_log_backup=yes then log files gets created.
if we set log_mode = overwrite then no log segments are created.
Note: Log Segments and Log Backups are different.
Vermicompost
Vermicompost is a type of organic fertilizer and soil amendment produced through the process of vermicomposting. It is created by utilizing earthworms to decompose organic waste materials, such as kitchen scraps, yard waste, and agricultural residues. Vermicomposting is a form of composting in which earthworms consume the organic matter and excrete it as nutrient-rich castings, also known as vermicast or worm castings.
The process of vermicomposting involves creating a controlled environment, such as a compost bin or worm bed, where earthworms are introduced along with the organic waste materials. As the earthworms feed on the organic matter, they break it down into simpler compounds, and their digestive systems help in the breakdown of complex organic compounds into nutrient-rich humus.
The resulting vermicompost is a dark, odorless, and crumbly material that is rich in essential plant nutrients, beneficial microorganisms, and organic matter. It contains nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and trace elements that are vital for plant growth. Additionally, vermicompost enhances soil structure, improves water retention, and promotes the growth of beneficial soil microorganisms.
Vermicompost is considered a valuable and sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, as it provides slow-release nutrients to plants, improves soil health, and reduces the environmental impact associated with the disposal of organic waste. It is widely used in organic farming, gardening, horticulture, and landscaping to enrich the soil and promote healthy plant growth in a natural and eco-friendly manner.
Benefits of Vermicompost:
- Nutrient-Rich: Vermicompost is a rich source of essential plant nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and micronutrients.
- Improved Soil Structure: It enhances soil structure, making it more porous, well-draining, and conducive to root growth.
- Enhanced Water Retention: Vermicompost improves the soil’s water-holding capacity, reducing the frequency of irrigation.
- Organic Matter: It increases the organic matter content of the soil, improving soil fertility and promoting microbial activity.
- Slow-Release Nutrients: The nutrients in vermicompost are released slowly over time, providing a steady supply to plants.
- Disease Resistance: It contains beneficial microorganisms that help plants resist diseases and pests.
pH Balancing: Vermicompost helps in balancing soil pH, creating a more favorable environment for plant growth. - Seed Germination: It promotes seed germination and supports healthy seedling growth.
Environmentally Friendly: Vermicompost is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers. - Soil Erosion Prevention: Improved soil structure and water retention help prevent soil erosion.
Nutrient Content of Vermicompost (approximate values per 100 kg):
- Nitrogen (N): 1.5-2.5 kg
- Phosphorus (P2O5): 1.0-1.5 kg
- Potassium (K2O): 0.5-1.0 kg
- Calcium (Ca): 2.0-3.5 kg
- Magnesium (Mg): 0.5-1.0 kg
- Micronutrients (Iron, Zinc, Copper, etc.): Present in trace amounts
How to Check Quality of Vermicompost:
- Odor: Good quality vermicompost should have an earthy, pleasant smell, indicating proper decomposition.
- Texture: It should be crumbly and uniform in texture, without any foul odors or large pieces.
- Color: Well-composted vermicompost is dark brown or black, resembling coffee grounds.
- Absence of Weeds and Pathogens: Ensure that the vermicompost is free from weed seeds and harmful pathogens.
- Moisture Content: The compost should be moist but not soggy. Excessive moisture can indicate poor composting.
- Worm Activity: Look for signs of active earthworms in the vermicompost, which indicates a healthy composting process.
- Temperature: Warmth in the vermicompost suggests ongoing decomposition and a thriving worm population.
- Solubility: When mixed with water, vermicompost should dissolve easily, releasing its nutrients into the solution.
- Compost Tea: You can create compost tea by steeping vermicompost in water. High-quality vermicompost will produce a nutrient-rich and odorless tea.
Cow Dung Compost
Cow dung compost, also known as cow manure compost or cow dung fertilizer, is a type of organic fertilizer made from the decomposed and aged dung of cattle. It is a valuable and nutrient-rich natural fertilizer that is widely used in agriculture and gardening.
To produce cow dung compost, fresh cow dung is collected and mixed with other organic materials like straw, crop residues, and vegetable waste. This mixture is then placed in a composting pit or bin where it undergoes a natural decomposition process. Microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, break down the organic matter in the dung and other materials, converting them into nutrient-rich humus.
During the composting process, the high temperatures and microbial activity help to kill pathogens and weed seeds, making the compost safe to use as a soil amendment. Once the composting is complete, the cow dung compost becomes a dark, crumbly material that is rich in organic matter, essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as beneficial microorganisms.
Cow dung compost is widely recognized for its ability to improve soil structure, enhance water retention, provide essential nutrients to plants, and promote the growth of beneficial soil microorganisms. It is an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, contributing to soil health and overall agricultural productivity.
In summarize, Cow dung compost is,
- Natural Fertilizer: Cow dung compost is an organic and natural fertilizer that enriches the soil with essential nutrients.
- Nutrient-Rich: It is a rich source of nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients, which are vital for plant growth.
- Improved Soil Structure: Cow dung compost improves soil structure, making it more porous and enhancing water retention and drainage.
- Enhances Microbial Activity: It contains beneficial microorganisms that promote soil health and increase nutrient availability to plants.
- Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: Cow dung compost is an eco-friendly option as it utilizes natural waste and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers.
- Slow Release of Nutrients: The nutrients in cow dung compost are released slowly, providing a steady supply to plants over time.
- Reduced Soil Erosion: Improved soil structure and moisture retention help prevent soil erosion and maintain soil fertility.
- Disease Suppression: Cow dung compost contributes to disease suppression by supporting the growth of beneficial microbes that protect plants from harmful pathogens.
- Safe for Plants and Environment: It is safe to use on various plants, crops, and gardens without the risk of harmful chemical residues.
- Cost-Effective: Cow dung compost can be produced on-site or sourced locally, reducing the need for expensive chemical fertilizers.
Nutrient Content of Cow Dung Compost (approximate values per 100 kg):
- Nitrogen (N): 1.5-2.5 kg
- Phosphorus (P2O5): 1.0-1.5 kg
- Potassium (K2O): 0.5-1.0 kg
- Organic Matter: 25-35 kg
- Calcium (Ca): 2.0-3.5 kg
- Magnesium (Mg): 0.5-1.0 kg
- Sulfur (S): 0.1-0.2 kg
- Micronutrients (Iron, Zinc, Copper, etc.): Present in trace amounts
How to Check Quality of Cow Dung Compost:
- Smell: Good quality compost should have a pleasant, earthy smell, indicating proper decomposition.
- Texture: It should be crumbly and uniform in texture, without any lumps or large pieces.
- Color: Well-composted cow dung is dark brown or black in color.
- Moisture: The compost should be moist but not soggy.
- Absence of Weeds and Pathogens: Ensure that the compost is free from weed seeds and harmful pathogens.
- Decomposition Level: Completely decomposed compost will have no recognizable bits of dung.
Python Code to get EBS stats for SAP Systems
In this article, we have developed a Python script to simplify the process of retrieving AWS CloudWatch metrics for Elastic Block Store (EBS) volumes. The script takes input from a CSV file, containing metrics such as metric-name, VolumeId, START_TIME, and END_TIME, and uses the boto3 library to interact with AWS services.
By using this script, users can avoid manually executing individual AWS CLI commands for each metric and volume, making the process more efficient and less error-prone. The script iterates through the CSV file, calls AWS CloudWatch using boto3, and collects the required metric statistics, such as the Average value, for each metric and volume within the specified time range.
The output is then written back to a CSV file with the columns metric-name, VolumeId, Timestamp, and Average. This organized output allows users to easily analyze and further process the data for their specific use cases.
Users can customize the input CSV file with desired metrics and volumes, making it adaptable to various AWS environments and monitoring requirements.
SAMPLE - input.csv
metric-name,VolumeId,START_TIME,END_TIME
VolumeReadOps,vol-12345,2023-07-01T00:00:00,2023-07-02T00:00:00
VolumeWriteOps,vol-67890,2023-07-01T00:00:00,2023-07-02T00:00:00
BurstBalance,vol-54321,2023-07-01T00:00:00,2023-07-02T00:00:00
VolumeBytesRead,vol-98765,2023-07-01T00:00:00,2023-07-02T00:00:00
VolumeBytesWrite,vol-24680,2023-07-01T00:00:00,2023-07-02T00:00:00
CODE - sap_get_metric_statistics.py
import csv
import boto3
# Function to get CloudWatch metric statistics
def get_metric_statistics(metric_name, volume_id, start_time, end_time):
cloudwatch = boto3.client('cloudwatch')
response = cloudwatch.get_metric_statistics(
Namespace='AWS/EBS',
MetricName=metric_name,
Dimensions=[
{
'Name': 'VolumeId',
'Value': volume_id
},
],
StartTime=start_time,
EndTime=end_time,
Period=300,
Statistics=['Average']
)
return response['Datapoints']
# Main function
def main():
input_file = 'input.csv'
output_file = 'output.csv'
with open(input_file, 'r') as csvfile:
csvreader = csv.DictReader(csvfile)
next(csvreader) # Skip the header row
data = list(csvreader)
with open(output_file, 'w', newline='') as file:
csvwriter = csv.writer(file)
csvwriter.writerow(['metric-name', 'VolumeId', 'Timestamp', 'Average'])
for entry in data:
metric_name = entry['metric-name']
volume_id = entry['VolumeId']
start_time = entry['START_TIME']
end_time = entry['END_TIME']
datapoints = get_metric_statistics(metric_name, volume_id, start_time, end_time)
for datapoint in datapoints:
csvwriter.writerow([metric_name, volume_id, datapoint['Timestamp'], datapoint['Average']])
if __name__ == "__main__":
main()
SAMPLE - output.csv
metric-name,VolumeId,Timestamp,Average
VolumeReadOps,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:00:00,120.0
VolumeReadOps,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:05:00,130.0
VolumeReadOps,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:10:00,115.0
VolumeWriteOps,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:00:00,50.0
VolumeWriteOps,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:05:00,60.0
VolumeWriteOps,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:10:00,55.0
BurstBalance,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:00:00,75.0
BurstBalance,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:05:00,80.0
BurstBalance,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:10:00,70.0
VolumeBytesRead,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:00:00,2000.0
VolumeBytesRead,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:05:00,2200.0
VolumeBytesRead,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:10:00,1900.0
VolumeBytesWrite,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:00:00,1500.0
VolumeBytesWrite,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:05:00,1700.0
VolumeBytesWrite,volume-1,2023-07-20 10:10:00,1400.0