What led to the decline in mortality rate in India during 1921-1951?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2: Improved health and sanitation.
Explanation:
In the history of Indian demographics, the period from 1921 to 1951 is known as the phase of 'steady growth.' The primary reasons for the decline in the mortality rate during this period were as follows:
Control over Epidemics: Prior to 1921, mortality rates in India were extremely high due to famines and epidemics such as the plague, cholera, and influenza. After 1921, these outbreaks began to be brought under control due to improvements in healthcare facilities and vaccination efforts.
Improvements in Sanitation: Conditions regarding water supply and sanitation improved significantly, leading to a reduction in deaths caused by infections.
Transport and Distribution: The development of modes of transport (such as railways) made it easier to deliver food grains to famine-affected regions, thereby leading to a decline in deaths caused by starvation.
Additional Facts:
1921 (The Year of Great Divide): The year 1921 is referred to as the 'Year of Great Divide' in the history of India's population because, following this year, India's population never declined; instead, it continued to grow steadily.
Mortality Rate vs. Birth Rate: During this period, while the mortality rate dropped rapidly, the birth rate remained high; this laid the foundation for a subsequent rapid surge in population (Population Explosion).
Analysis of Other Options:
World War II (Option 1): Wars typically increase mortality rates, rather than decreasing them.
Increase in Birth Rate (Option 3): An increase in the birth rate leads to population growth, but it is not the cause of a 'decline' in the mortality rate.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) (Option 4): AI is a modern technology; it did not exist during the period of 1921–1951.
Potential Question for Upcoming Exams:
Question: Which year in the history of India's population is referred to as the 'Year of Great Divide'?
Answer: 1921. Question: Which period is considered the era of 'Population Explosion' in India?
Answer: Between 1951 and 1981.
Question: What is the scientific study of population called?
Answer: Demography.