Census, Population & Demographics Module
Population Growth, Density & Sex Ratio
Demographic dynamics in India are characterized by shifting population totals, declining decadal growth rates, spatial density variations, and evolving sex ratios. In Census 2011, India's total population stood at 1.21 billion, registering a decadal growth rate of 17.7% between 2001 and 2011. National population density increased to 382 persons per square kilometer, with Bihar ranking highest among states (1,106 persons/km²) and Arunachal Pradesh lowest (17 persons/km²). The national sex ratio improved to 943 females per 1,000 males, whereas the child sex ratio (0-6 years) dropped to 919. Examining these trends illustrates the stages of India's demographic transition.
Key Concepts & Examination Highlights
- The year 1921 is known as the 'Year of the Great Divide' in Indian demographic history, after which India's population grew continuously without negative growth.
- According to Census 2011, India's population density is 382 persons per square kilometre; Bihar is the most densely populated state (1,106 persons/km²), while Arunachal Pradesh has the lowest density (17 persons/km²).
- The overall sex ratio of India in Census 2011 was 943 females per 1,000 males; Kerala recorded the highest sex ratio (1,084), while Haryana recorded the lowest among states (879).
- The decadal population growth rate of India during 2001-2011 was 17.70%; Meghalaya recorded the highest decadal growth rate (27.95%), whereas Nagaland recorded negative growth (-0.58%).
Curriculum & Reference Sources: Census of India 2011 (Registrar General of India), United Nations Population Division, and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.