Consider the following statements about India’s population growth since 1981 and choose the correct option:
1. The rate of population growth began to decline gradually after 1981.
2. Birth rates continued to rise sharply in the 1990s.
3. Despite declining growth rate, 182 million people were added in the 1990s.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Answer: Only statements 1 and 3 are correct.
Explanation:
The trends in India's population growth are as follows:
Statement 1 is correct: Since 1981, India's population growth rate began to decline gradually due to increased awareness regarding family planning.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The birth rate did not rise rapidly during the 1990s; rather, it declined. The reduction in the birth rate was the primary reason for the decrease in the growth rate.
Statement 3 is correct: Although the growth rate (in percentage terms) was declining, India's total population base was so vast that a net addition of 182 million (18.2 crore) people occurred during the 1990s. This paradox arises due to the large base of the population.
Additional Points:
Population Density: According to the 2011 Census, India's population density is 382 persons per square kilometer.
Sex Ratio: In 2011, it was recorded as 943 females per 1,000 males.
Between 1951 and 1981, the population growth rate was very high, peaking at approximately 2.2% in 1981.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers:
Question: Which year in the history of the Indian Census is referred to as the 'Year of the Great Divide'?
Answer: 1921.
Question: What is the primary objective of India's current population policy?
Answer: To achieve the replacement level (TFR 2.1) and population stabilization.