SSC CPO 2025 PYQ — Question 43

Answer — (4) Dissected and rocky terrain

Explanation —

Population density primarily depends on a region's geographical location, climate, and the availability of resources. A 'moderate' population density is observed in most states of India's Peninsular Plateau; the primary geographical reason behind this is the dissected and rocky terrain.

The rugged and stony topography of Peninsular India is less conducive to agriculture compared to the vast plains of North India (which feature alluvial soil and flat land). Furthermore, the rivers in this region are seasonal, and the soil layer is relatively thin and less fertile. Due to low rainfall and challenging topography, the development of dense settlements has remained limited here. Hill erosion, rocky ground, and moderate-to-low rainfall are the primary factors responsible for the moderate population density in these regions.

Additional Points —

Option (1): High industrialization typically leads to high population density (e.g., Mumbai or Bengaluru), but this is not a general characteristic of the entire Peninsular region.

Option (2): Abundant water resources are found in regions of North India featuring perennial rivers, whereas Peninsular rivers are rain-dependent.

Option (3): Fertile alluvial soil is characteristic of the North Indian plains and coastal regions, where population density is typically very 'high.'

According to the 2011 Census, while plain states like Bihar (1106) and West Bengal (1028) exhibit very high population densities, the density in most Peninsular states such as Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh falls between 200 and 500 persons per square kilometer (categorized as 'moderate').

Potential Exam Questions and Answers —

Question: In which geographical region of India is the highest population density found?

Answer: In the Northern Plains.

Question: What is the primary type of soil found in Peninsular India?
Answer: Black and Red soils (Black soil is found in the Deccan Trap region).