Question

Explain how an urban area has been defined according to the census of India, 2001?

Answer 1

According to the Census of India, 2001, an area is classified as urban based on the following criteria:

1. Statutory Towns: All places that have a municipality, corporation, cantonment board, or a notified town area committee are treated as urban. These are officially declared by the state government.
2. Census Towns: Areas which satisfy all the following conditions are considered census towns:
   • A minimum population of 5,000.
   • At least 75% of the male working population engaged in non-agricultural activities.
   • A population density of at least 400 persons per square kilometre.

This dual classification helps in correctly identifying and studying both formally declared urban areas and functionally urban regions that have not been officially notified.