Question

The graph given below represents demographic transition in India during the years 1901-2011. Study it carefully and answer the questions that follow:

1. Phase III indicates a significant change in the population of India. Give any three reasons to account for this change.  (3)
2. Why is the year 1921 called a year of demographic divide? Give any two reasons for your answer.  (2)
3. Push factors are important indicators of Population growth in a given area. Explain how these factors have led to change in density of population in the plains of Rajasthan.  (2)

Answer 1

1. Reasons:
   • The increase in birth rate is higher than the death rate.
   • Health facilities had improved.
   • Living conditions had improved.
   • Death rate had declined.
   • The rate of development had accelerated.
2. 1921 is called a demographic divide:
   • There was a slight decline in the population growth rate.
   • The population continued to rise thereafter.
   • The death rate increased during this year due to fatal diseases.
   • Large number of soldiers had lost their lives during World War I.
   • The population pyramid began to narrow with young people proportion reducing and an increase in proportion of older people.
3. Push factors that have led to low density of population in Rajasthan are:

• • Scarcity of Water Resources: An arid climate and limited irrigation facilities force people to migrate elsewhere.
  • Unfavourable Physical Conditions: Sandy soil, high temperatures, low rainfall, and lack of fertile land make agriculture difficult, leading to outward migration and sparse population.