1.4. Regional Variation in Population Growth

The growth rate of population during 1991-2001 in Indian States and Union Territories shows a very obvious pattern. The States like Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Puducherry, and Goa show a low rate of growth not exceeding 20 per cent over the decade. Kerala registered the lowest growth rate (9.4) not only in this group of states but also in the country as a whole. A continuous belt of states from west to east in the north-west, north, and north-central parts of the country has relatively high growth rates than the southern states. It is in this belt comprising Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Sikkim, Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand that the growth rate on average remained 20-25 per cent.

In India, population growth rates differ significantly across various states and territories, particularly observed in the decade from 1991 to 2001. Some southern states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu experienced slow growth rates, with Kerala being particularly low at just 9.4%. In contrast, a belt stretching from western to eastern states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, and others, saw much higher growth rates (20-25%). This disparity can be attributed to differences in socio-economic conditions, health care, and migration patterns affecting these regions.

Think of India as a garden where some sections receive more sunlight and nutrients than others. The southern states, which are like the shaded areas of the garden, are growing slowly, while the sunlit belt of states in the west and north are thriving and growing quickly.

During 2001-2011, the growth rates of almost all States and Union Territories have registered a lower figure compared to the previous decade, namely, 1991-2001. The percentage decadal growth rates of the six most populous States, namely, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh have all fallen during 2001-2011 compared to 1991-2001, the fall being the lowest for Andhra Pradesh and highest for Maharashtra.

From 2001 to 2011, the population growth rates across many Indian states declined compared to the prior decade. For instance, states such as Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra saw decreases in growth rates, reflecting changing dynamics, such as improved health conditions and family planning awareness, which tend to stabilize or reduce growth over time. The most significant drop was noted in Maharashtra. This indicates a potential transition into a phase where population growth rates stabilize as development progresses.

Imagine a balloon that expands rapidly when filled with air quickly, representing the population growth in earlier years. However, as more care is taken to manage the air (like implementing better healthcare and education), the balloon still fills up but at a slower pace, resembling the recent trends where growth is slowing down.

An important aspect of population growth in India is the growth of its adolescents. At present, the share of adolescents i.e., up to the age group of 10-19 years is about 20.9 per cent (2011), among which male adolescents constitute 52.7 per cent and female adolescents constitute 47.3 per cent.

The adolescent population (ages 10-19) in India makes up a significant portion (20.9%) of the total population, with a slight majority being male. This demographic is pivotal for India's future as their education, health, and empowerment can greatly influence the country's development trajectory. The government recognizes the importance of this youth group and has initiated various policies, including the National Youth Policy, to harness their potential.

Think of adolescents as the saplings in a tree nursery; if they are nurtured well with proper education and skills, they can grow into strong trees that provide shade and fruit for future generations. If not properly guided, these saplings may struggle to grow and thrive.

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