Question

Growth of Population in India from 1901 to 2011.

Census Year	Population (in millions)	Decadal Percentage of Growth-Rate
1901	238.4	–
1911	252.1	+5.75
1921	251.3	−0.31
1931	278.9	−11.00
1941	318.6	−14.22
1951	361.1	+13.31
1961	439.2	+21.64
1971	547.2	+24.80
1981	683.3	+24.66
1991	843.4	+23.86
2001	1028.7	+21.54
2011	1210.19	+17.64

Study of above data and answer the following questions:

1. Which year recorded negative growth and why?
2. Why 1921 is called the ‘demographic divide in the census history of India’?
3. Why is rate of growth less in 1951 as compared to 1941?
4. Why there is gradual decline in the growth-rate between 1971 and 2011?

Answer 1

1. The year 1921 recorded a negative growth rate of -0.31%. This was due to a combination of high mortality rates and low birth rates during the decade, caused largely by:
   • The 1918 influenza pandemic, which claimed millions of lives.
   • Famine and epidemics were prevalent during that period.
   • Poor medical and sanitary conditions under British colonial rule.
2. The year 1921 is known as the ‘demographic divide’ because:
   • It marks a turning point in India’s population growth pattern.
   • Before 1921, population growth was erratic with occasional declines.
   • After 1921, the population began to grow consistently and at a much faster rate.
     Thus, 1921 separates the stagnant phase from the growth phase in India’s demographic history.
3. In 1951, the decadal growth rate was +13.31%, which was lower than +14.22% in 1941. This occurred because:
   • The partition of India in 1947 led to significant population displacement and loss of life.
   • Post-independence economic instability and food shortages affected health and mortality.
   • Medical infrastructure was still in a developing stage.
4. The gradual decline from 24.80% in 1971 to 17.64% in 2011 is due to:
   • Government initiatives like the Family Planning Programme and later Population Policies.
   • Increased awareness about family size and contraceptive use.
   • Improved literacy and education, especially among women.
   • Urbanisation and economic development, leading to lifestyle changes and reduced fertility.