Population of India

Population • Class 9 Social Science • NCERT • CBSE

India is the world's most populous country with over 1.4 billion people. Population density is highest in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The birth rate, death rate, and migration determine population change. India's sex ratio is 943 females per 1000 males (Census 2011). The National Population Policy 2000 aimed for population stabilisation.

Key Formulas

Frequently Asked Questions

What is population density and which state has the highest in India?
Population density is the number of people living per unit area, calculated as: Population density = Total population / Total area (in km²). India's average density (2011 Census) is 382 persons/km². West Bengal has the highest density (~1,029 persons/km²) followed by Bihar and Kerala. Arunachal Pradesh has the lowest (~17 persons/km²) due to its difficult hilly terrain and forests.
What is sex ratio and what is India's sex ratio?
Sex ratio is the number of females per 1000 males in a population. It is an important indicator of women's social status. India's sex ratio as per 2011 Census is 943 females per 1000 males. Kerala has the highest sex ratio (1084 females per 1000 males) — attributed to high female literacy and social welfare. States like Haryana have low sex ratios due to female foeticide and gender discrimination.
What is the demographic dividend?
The demographic dividend refers to the economic growth potential that results from a large proportion of the population being in the working-age group (15–59 years). India currently has a young population structure, which means over the next few decades, a large number of young people will enter the workforce. If they are educated and skilled, this can significantly boost economic productivity. India's demographic dividend is expected to last until around 2040–50.

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