Blood and Iron Germany[Part Two]

Based on the current data, the Empire's primary adversaries are as follows: the Russo-Soviet bloc boasts a population of 120 million (reduced after territorial losses), the United States exceeds 80 million, while the island nation mirrors the Empire at just over 50 million. The Austro-Hungarian Empire trails slightly behind, with a population surpassing 40 million. In comparison, the Empire holds no advantage in population—indeed, it faces an absolute disadvantage. 

In the event of war, even with maximum mobilization, the Empire can field no more than five million troops. In contrast, the Russo-Soviet bloc can mobilize over ten million, the United States eight million, and the island nation five million as well. This places the Empire against foes with forces several times its size. 

Some may argue that the Empire's military prowess far surpasses that of its enemies. However, with industrial output and population both significantly lagging behind its rivals, can we truly expect the Empire's military strength to compensate? I, for one, do not wish to see the Empire emerge victorious only to find its young men decimated. Should that happen, the Empire itself might cease to exist. Qin Tian's expression was solemn. 

"Your Majesty, the population issue is indeed a grave concern for the Empire. The government will soon introduce policies aimed at fostering growth," Prime Minister Bülow assured him. 

Qin Tian shook his head. "That alone will not suffice. I want the Empire's population to double within the next twenty years. By 1936, the Empire must reach a total of 100 million people, with the majority of this increase comprised of youth. This will ensure that in future wars, we have ample manpower, granting us the means to defeat even the strongest adversaries!" 

"A twofold increase in twenty years? How is that even possible?" Prime Minister Bülow was visibly shocked. 

Similar reactions spread among the military and political ministers, all stunned by Qin Tian's audacious demand. After all, population growth is no simple feat. Unless, like the great eastern power of another era, the Empire removes all barriers to childbearing, such a rapid increase seems unthinkable. 

"Your Majesty, achieving this may require issuing mandatory directives. Without compulsion, such growth is unlikely," remarked the Minister of Civil Affairs. 

Qin Tian nodded. "From this moment, enact the following policy: every married couple of childbearing age must have at least two children. For a third child, the Empire will cover educational and other expenses, along with providing financial subsidies. The more children a family has, the greater the subsidy. Conversely, families with fewer than two children will face penalties. Military and government officials failing to comply will forfeit promotions and face heavy fines. This should incentivize population growth." 

"Your Majesty, such a directive might provoke significant public discontent. Not all families are willing or able to have so many children, and some couples may face medical challenges. These cases must be handled separately," Bülow cautioned. 

"The government must strengthen public guidance, making it clear that a strong Empire has secured vast territories, and it would be a national crime to let them slip away due to insufficient population. We need more people to sustain the Empire's strength. I believe the vast majority of our citizens are patriotic and willing to contribute to our nation's greatness. With proper advocacy, this policy can be successfully implemented," Qin Tian asserted. 

"Your Majesty, while the plan is feasible, it will significantly strain government finances," the Finance Minister voiced concern. 

Though the Empire recently profited handsomely by selling Indian territories to local rulers, its expenditures have also surged, from infrastructure development and improving living standards to bolstering military power—all of which demand substantial funds. 

"This is not an issue," Qin Tian declared. "Starting next year, the Empire will generate 20 billion marks annually from Indian revenues. Moreover, the wealth acquired from new colonies alone will drastically improve our fiscal situation. If necessary, the gold and jewels obtained by the military from India can be used as population development funds." 

The German military had seized 3,000 tons of gold and countless jewels from India, with the gold alone valued at over 80 billion marks, and the total haul estimated at 150 billion marks. Investing this wealth would yield substantial returns, sufficient to sustain population development. If additional funds are needed, Qin Tian was prepared to draw from royal assets. 

Since ascending to the throne, Qin Tian's personal holdings had been integrated into the royal treasury, though only he had the authority to allocate these resources. 

Hearing Qin Tian's plan to use the Indian spoils for population growth, the military ministers initially hesitated but soon acquiesced. They had hoped these funds would bolster military capabilities, but they now realized that advanced weaponry is futile without soldiers to wield it. A growing population would mean an ever-stronger military. 

"Your Majesty, the Army has no objections to allocating these funds for population development," Marshal Falkenhayn stated. 

With the Army's consent, the Navy and Air Force raised no opposition either, as the money had originally come from the Army's efforts. 

"Then it is settled. Effective January 1st next year, the Empire will officially implement the family planning initiative. The Empire's population must increase substantially to secure our future dominance on the world stage!" Qin Tian declared. 

"Yes, Your Majesty!" the ministers replied in unison. 

A week later, the German government issued an executive order mandating family planning nationwide. 

The decree sparked widespread debate in Germany and beyond. The majority supported it, willing to contribute for the Empire's sake, especially given the subsidies for additional children. Only a minority criticized it as an infringement on human rights. Meanwhile, Germany's enemies grew increasingly alarmed, sensing an ever-greater threat from the Empire.