Insights from Census 2011: Population, Urbanization, and Development in India

The Census of India is a count of all the people living in the country that happens every ten years. The first census was conducted in 1872, with the first complete census taking place in 1881. Since then, the census has been done every ten years. This important process helps us understand how the population of India changes over time and provides essential information for planning and policymaking.

Overview of India’s Census: Insights into Population, Urbanization, and Development”

• Total Population: As of March 2011, India’s population reached 1,210.6 million, comprising 17.5% of the global population. 
  • The population of India is distributed unevenly across the country’s vast land area of 3.28 million square km, representing 2.4% of the world’s total area.

• Population Distribution
  • 31.165 % of the total population can be categorised as urban.
  • Goa is the most urbanised state (62% urban population) 
  • Himachal Pradesh has the highest percentage of rural population.
  • Union territory with the least population: Lakshadweep
  • Union Territory with the highest population: Delhi
  • State with the highest population: Uttar Pradesh> Maharashtra> Bihar
  • State with the lowest population: Sikkim
• Density of population
  • State with highest population density: Bihar
  • State with the lowest population density: Arunachal Pradesh
  • Union Territory  with highest population density: Delhi
  • Union Territory  with the lowest population density: Andaman and Nicobar
• Sex Ratio
  • Sex ratio: 943 females per 1000 males
  • State with the highest sex ratio: Kerala
  • State with the lowest sex ratio: Haryana

• Literacy
  • Literacy Rate in India: Males-82.14%; Females-65.46%; Overall Literacy-74%
  • State with the highest literacy rate: Kerala
  • State with the lowest literacy rate: Bihar

Glossary of Demographic Terms

Conclusion

• The Census of India 2011 highlights significant variations in population distribution, urbanization rates, literacy levels, and sex ratios among states and union territories. 
• Understanding these demographic dynamics is crucial for effective policymaking and planning to address the diverse needs of India’s population and harness its demographic dividend for sustainable development.