Question

Analyse the growth of population in India since 1921.

Answer 1

1. After 1921, India’s population increased steadily due to improvements in healthcare services, sanitation, and food supply. While the death rate declined, the birth rate remained high. Major events such as the Great Depression and the Second World War did not significantly affect population growth.
2. Between 1951 and 1981, India witnessed a rapid rise in population, often described as a population explosion. This was mainly due to a sharp fall in the death rate because of better medical facilities, while the birth rate continued to be high. Economic progress, improved healthcare, and migration from neighbouring countries like Tibet, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan also contributed to this rapid growth.
3. Since 1981, the pace of population growth has gradually decreased. Factors such as a falling birth rate, higher literacy levels, improved healthcare, effective family planning programmes, and delayed marriages have influenced this trend. Although the population is still increasing, the rate of growth has slowed over time.
4. India’s population is still rising, but at a reduced speed, and it is expected to reach about 1,350 million by 2025. Therefore, effective population control measures are essential to ensure sustainable development and proper management of resources.