Which three states in the Northern Plains region have the highest population densities?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Answer: Option (3) is correct.
Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh
Explanation:
India's Northern Plains region is one of the most densely populated areas in the world, owing to its fertile alluvial soil, perennial rivers, and favorable climate. According to the 2011 Census data, Bihar (1,106 persons/sq km) is the state with the highest population density in India. It is followed by West Bengal (1,028 persons/sq km) in the second position. Uttar Pradesh (829 persons/sq km)—which is India's largest state in terms of total population—also ranks among the top states in terms of density. The primary reasons for the high density in these states are the flat terrain and the abundant availability of water for agriculture, factors that have attracted human settlement since ancient times.
Additional Points:
Bihar: West Bengal held the top spot in the 2001 Census, but Bihar surpassed it in 2011.
Union Territories: If states and Union Territories are considered collectively, Delhi (11,320 persons/sq km) has the highest population density.
Lowest Density: The state with the lowest population density in India is Arunachal Pradesh (17 persons/sq km).
National Average: According to the 2011 Census, India's average population density is 382 persons per square kilometer.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers:
Question: According to the 2011 Census, which Indian state has the lowest population density?
Answer: Arunachal Pradesh.
Question: What is meant by population density?
Answer: The average number of persons living per unit area (typically per square kilometer).
Question: Is the population density of Uttar Pradesh higher or lower than the national average?
Answer: Higher (UP's density is 829, whereas India's is 382).