Population Size and Distribution

6.1 Population Size and Distribution

Description

Quick Overview

This section discusses the significance of population size and distribution in India, highlighting the trends observed in the 2011 Census.

Standard

The section delves into India's population, touching upon its size, state-wise distribution, and growth trends based on census data. It emphasizes the role of population in understanding resources, economy, and social structures.

Detailed

Detailed Summary

In this section, we explore the critical aspects of population size and distribution in India, focusing on data from the 2011 Census. As of March 2011, India’s population was approximately 1.21 billion, representing over 17% of the world’s population, but distributed unevenly across the country’s vast area. Uttar Pradesh is noted as the most populous state, while regions like Sikkim and Lakshadweep have very low populations.

The section examines population density, explaining how it reveals uneven distribution, with certain states showing significantly higher densities. For example, Bihar has a density of 1,102 persons per square kilometer, compared to the 17 persons per square kilometer in Arunachal Pradesh.

Also detailed are population growth and the processes influencing it, such as births, deaths, and migrations. The annual growth rate illustrates the trend of increasing absolute numbers despite declining rates. Additionally, we learn of the significant adolescent population in India and the challenges posed by inadequate nutrition.

Lastly, the National Population Policy (NPP) 2000 is introduced, underscoring the government’s initiatives in family planning and education aimed at improving individual health and welfare, which are pivotal in dealing with India's burgeoning population.

Key Concepts

  • Population size: The total number of individuals residing in a country, important for resource management.

  • Uneven distribution: The non-uniform spread of population across regions which can impact services and economy.

  • Population density: A measurement of population per unit area, indicating how crowded an area is.

  • Population growth: The change in number of inhabitants over time, presenting trends necessary for social planning.

  • Natural increase: The difference between the birth rate and death rate influencing population size.

Memory Aids

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • In Uttar Pradesh, many folks reside, the population swells, there's nowhere to hide.

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Imagine a crowded town where everyone's trying to make a living. In contrast, a quiet village where a few families thrive. This represents the uneven distribution of India's population.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • Remember ADR for population change: A for births, D for deaths, and R for migration.

🎯 Super Acronyms

UP = UoP

  • Uttar Pradesh has a lot of People.

Examples

  • Uttar Pradesh's population in 2011 was approximately 199 million, making it the most populous state.

  • Bihar has a high population density of 1,102 persons per square kilometer, compared to Arunachal Pradesh at just 17.

Glossary of Terms

  • Term: Census

    Definition:

    An official enumeration of population conducted periodically.

  • Term: Population Density

    Definition:

    The number of persons per unit area, usually expressed in persons per square kilometer.

  • Term: Growth Rate

    Definition:

    The rate at which the population increases, typically expressed as a percentage per year.

  • Term: Adolescent Population

    Definition:

    Individuals aged 10 to 19, forming a significant demographic group in the population.

  • Term: National Population Policy (NPP)

    Definition:

    A framework by the Government of India to promote family planning and improve health standards.