A social media influencer has highlighted the escalating costs of raising children in Indian metro cities, claiming that ₹6.75 crore is now required for the complete upbringing of a child. According to reports from Mint, self-claimed financial adviser Udayan Adhye explained that education and lifestyle inflation has significantly contributed to these rising costs. He argued that while many parents rely on traditional child plans, more advanced financial planning is now essential to combat the rising education expenses across the country.
The core driver of these costs is the rapid inflation in school fees, which Adhye reports are rising at a rate of 10-12% annually. As reported by Mint, this means costs double every six years, creating a compounding effect that significantly impacts the overall financial burden. He warned that traditional child plans offering 5-6% returns are inadequate when school fees are inflating at double that rate.
The influencer provided specific examples of how college costs will escalate over time. According to Mint reports, if a college degree costs ₹20 lakh today, it could reach ₹1.6-2 crore by the time a newborn child turns 18. This projection is based on the 10-12% annual inflation rate, highlighting the dramatic impact of time on educational expenses.
Beyond school fees, Adhye outlined additional expenses that can reach up to ₹10 lakh annually. As reported by Mint, these costs include extracurricular activities such as sports, music lessons, coaching classes, vacations, gadgets, healthcare, lifestyle spending, and nanny services. The calculation extends for 21 years before a child reaches adulthood, making the total financial commitment substantial.
The influencer's video has generated significant attention among social media users, with mixed reactions reported by Mint. While some users questioned the calculations, others agreed with the analysis and emphasized the need for better financial awareness among parents. The post has sparked discussions about the true cost of child-rearing in India's metro cities, moving beyond emotional considerations to serious financial planning requirements.
