Growth of Population
India is the second most populous country in the world, with a population of 1.21 billion as of the 2011 Census. This large population presents significant challenges, including pressure on limited resources and various socio-economic problems.
Key Aspects of Population Analysis
- Sources of Population Data: India's census operations, conducted every ten years since 1872, provide essential demographic data.
- Distribution and Density: Population distribution is uneven across states, with Uttar Pradesh having the largest population. Density is expressed as persons per sq km; India’s density was 382 in 2011, influenced by factors such as climate and urbanization.
- Growth Trends: India has experienced notable growth phases: a stagnant phase from 1901-1921, steady growth from 1921-1951, a period of explosive increase from 1951-1981, and a gradual slowing from 1981 onward.
- Regional Variations: Variability in growth rates exists between states. For instance, southern states like Kerala exhibit lower growth rates compared to northern states like Uttar Pradesh.
- Population Composition: A focus on age, sex, rural-urban divide, and socio-economic factors is essential for understanding the population's dynamics, with a significant youth demographic being a challenge for the future.
The section contextualizes these elements, indicating how historical, geographical, and social influences shape India's demographic landscape.