Population – Density, Growth, and Distribution in India
Delhi Police Exams – Economic & Human Geography
Introduction: The Human Resource of India
Population is one of the most vital geographical elements, influencing the country’s economy, society, and development.
India is the second most populous country in the world, after China, contributing about 17% of the world’s population.
Key Population Facts (Census 2011)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 1.21 billion (121 crore) |
| Male | 62.3 crore |
| Female | 58.6 crore |
| Sex Ratio | 940 females per 1000 males |
| Literacy Rate | 74.04% (M: 82.1%, F: 65.5%) |
| Population Density | 382 persons per sq. km |
| Decadal Growth (2001–2011) | 17.7% |
| Most Populous State | Uttar Pradesh |
| Least Populous State | Sikkim |
| Highest Density | Bihar (1106/sq. km) |
| Lowest Density | Arunachal Pradesh (17/sq. km) |
Population Distribution in India
Population is unevenly distributed due to geographical, climatic, and socio-economic factors.
A. High Population Density Areas
- Northern Plains (UP, Bihar, WB): Fertile soil, flat land, dense settlements
B. Moderate Density Areas
- Deccan Plateau (MP, Maharashtra, Karnataka): Industrial/urban growth
C. Low Density Areas
- Himalayan states, Deserts, NE states: Rugged terrain, harsh climate
Population Growth in India
Population growth refers to the change in population over a period of time. India's growth has shown trends through different phases.
| Period | Phase Name | Nature of Growth |
|---|---|---|
| 1901–1921 | Stagnant Growth | High death, low birth rates |
| 1921–1951 | Steady Growth | Improved healthcare |
| 1951–1981 | Rapid Growth | Medical revolution, reduced death rate |
| 1981–2011 | Declining Growth | Family planning awareness |
Factors Affecting Population Distribution
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Relief | Flat fertile plains → dense population |
| Climate | Moderate → favorable, extreme → sparse |
| Soil Fertility | Alluvial soil supports farming population |
| Water Availability | Rivers attract settlements |
| Industrialization/Urbanization | Employment draws migration |
Population Density
Population Density = Total Population / Total Area (sq. km)
States with Highest Density (2011):
- Bihar – 1106
- West Bengal – 1028
- Kerala – 860
- UP – 828
Lowest Density States:
- Arunachal Pradesh – 17
- Sikkim – 86
- Mizoram – 52
Population Composition
| Category | Share (%) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Children (0–14) | 30% | High dependency ratio |
| Working Population (15–59) | 63% | Productive age group |
| Elderly (60+) | 7% | Growing due to healthcare |
Urbanization in India
- Urban Population (2011): 31%
- Rural Population: 69%
- Rapid urban growth due to industrialization & migration
- Most Urbanized State: Goa (62.2%)
- Least Urbanized: Himachal Pradesh (10%)
Practice Questions (Delhi Police PYQ-style)
As per Census 2011, India’s population was approximately —
Options: A) 102 crore B) 121 crore C) 132 crore D) 118 crore
Category: Basic Census
Show Answer
B) 121 crore
Which year is known as the “Year of Great Divide” in India’s population history?
Options: A) 1901 B) 1921 C) 1947 D) 2001
Category: Population Milestones
Show Answer
B) 1921
Which Indian state has the highest population density?
Options: A) UP B) West Bengal C) Bihar D) Kerala
Category: Statewise Density
Show Answer
C) Bihar
Which state has the lowest population density as per the 2011 Census?
Options: A) Sikkim B) Mizoram C) Arunachal Pradesh D) Nagaland
Category: Statewise Density
Show Answer
C) Arunachal Pradesh
The sex ratio in India (Census 2011) was —
Options: A) 933 B) 940 C) 947 D) 952
Category: Key Ratios
Show Answer
B) 940
Which state has the highest literacy rate in India (2011)?
Options: A) Kerala B) Tamil Nadu C) Maharashtra D) Gujarat
Category: Literacy
Show Answer
A) Kerala
Which Indian state has the largest population?
Options: A) Maharashtra B) Bihar C) Uttar Pradesh D) West Bengal
Category: Statewise Population
Show Answer
C) Uttar Pradesh
The most important factor affecting population distribution is —
Options: A) Rainfall B) Fertile soil and water C) Forest cover D) Wildlife presence
Category: Population Factors
Show Answer
B) Fertile soil and water
Quick Comparison Table
| Aspect | High Population Areas | Low Population Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Relief | Plains | Mountains & deserts |
| Soil | Alluvial | Sandy / Rocky |
| Water | Abundant | Scarce |
| Occupation | Agriculture / Industry | Pastoral |
| Climate | Moderate | Harsh (too hot/cold) |
Exam Tricks & Mnemonics
"B-U-A" Rule
Bihar → Densest, UP → Populous, Arunachal → Sparse
"1921 Divide Trick"
- Before 1921 → Population Stagnant
- After 1921 → Population Rapid
Top 3 Literacy States:
Kerala > Mizoram > Tripura
Bottom 3 Literacy States:
Bihar < Arunachal < Rajasthan
Revision & Exam Points
Final Exam Tips
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