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India - Population and Census PYQs – Geography, SSC & Railway

255 India - Population and Census (Geography) questions asked in recent SSC and Railway exams, newest first, with exam, date & shift, answers and solutions – page 2 of 3.

📚 255 questionsSSC 166 · Railway 89
123

Q101. In the study of migration, factors that attract people to move towards a new location — such as better employment, education, and healthcare facilities — are called?

  1. (a) Push factors
  2. (b) Pull factors
  3. (c) Natural factors
  4. (d) Negative factors
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Pull factors

Pull factors are conditions that attract migrants to a new destination. These include better job opportunities, higher wages, superior educational institutions, advanced healthcare, political stability, and improved quality of life. They contrast with 'push factors' (adverse conditions like poverty, conflict, or lack of opportunity) that compel people to leave their home location.
(a) Incorrect: Push factors are negative conditions in the origin area that drive people to leave (e.g., unemployment, drought, conflict).
(c) Incorrect: 'Natural factors' is not a standard term in migration theory.
(d) Incorrect: 'Negative factors' is not the correct term; these motivating factors are specifically called pull factors.

Q102. What is cited as the most common reason for migration among females in India?

  1. (a) Employment
  2. (b) Education
  3. (c) Marriage
  4. (d) Business
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Marriage

According to Census data and studies on migration in India, marriage is the most common reason for female migration. A large proportion of women in India move to their husband's home (village, town, or city) after marriage, often crossing inter-village, inter-district, or inter-state boundaries. This pattern is deeply embedded in social customs of patrilocal residence in India.
(a) Incorrect: Employment is the primary reason for male migration in India, not the most common for females.
(b) Incorrect: Education-related migration is more prominent among young males; for females, marriage dominates.
(d) Incorrect: Business is a minor reason for migration compared to marriage for women in India.

Q103. What proportion of the total population of India, based on the Census 2011 data cited, was reported as migrants based on the place of last residence?

  1. (a) Eighty five percent
  2. (b) Thirty seven percent
  3. (c) Twenty percent
  4. (d) Sixty five percent
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Thirty seven percent

The correct answer is Thirty seven percent (Option 2).
According to the Census 2011 data, approximately 37% (about 450 million people) of India's total population were recorded as migrants based on their place of last residence. This highlights the massive scale of internal migration in India, driven by economic opportunities, marriage, and education.
Option 1 - Eighty five percent: This vastly overestimates the migrant proportion; 85% would mean almost all Indians had migrated, which is not accurate.
Option 3 - Twenty percent: This underestimates the migrant proportion; the actual figure is approximately 37%.
Option 4 - Sixty five percent: This also significantly overestimates the migrant population; the Census 2011 data indicates approximately 37%.

Q104. Migration streams involving movement between states are collectively classified by what term in the dominant streams of the Census 2011 data?

  1. (a) International Migration
  2. (b) Intra-state Migration
  3. (c) Emigration Migration
  4. (d) Inter-state Migration
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Inter-state Migration

The correct answer is Inter-state Migration (Option 4).
In the Census 2011 data, migration streams are classified based on origin and destination. Movement of people between different states within India is classified as Inter-state Migration. This is one of the dominant forms of migration in India, driven by economic opportunities, education, and employment.
Option 1 - International Migration: International migration refers to movement across national borders (to/from other countries), not between Indian states.
Option 2 - Intra-state Migration: Intra-state migration refers to movement within the same state (e.g., from rural to urban areas within one state).
Option 3 - Emigration Migration: Emigration refers to leaving one's own country to settle in another; this is not the term for inter-state migration within India.

Q105. In the three-staged model of Demographic Transition, which societal description best characterises the final stage (Stage III)?

  1. (a) Rural Agrarian
  2. (b) Rural Industrial
  3. (c) Urban Industrial
  4. (d) Agricultural Industrial
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Urban Industrial

The correct answer is Urban Industrial (Option 3).
In the Demographic Transition Model (DTM), Stage III represents a society with low birth rates and low death rates, characteristic of urban industrial societies. High urbanisation , industrialisation , education, and access to family planning lead to falling birth rates in this stage.
Option 1 - Rural Agrarian: This describes Stage I (pre-industrial) societies with high birth and death rates.
Option 2 - Rural Industrial: This is a transitional description; Stage III societies are predominantly urban.
Option 4 - Agricultural Industrial: Not a standard societal description in the DTM; Stage III is best described as urban industrial.

Q106. Statement 1: Population composition means the age, gender, and educational level of the people of a country.
Statement 2: The Population Pyramid helps in analysing the age and gender distribution of a country.

  1. (a) Statement 1 is correct and Statement 2 is incorrect
  2. (b) Statement 1 is incorrect and Statement 2 is correct
  3. (c) Both statements are correct
  4. (d) Both statements are incorrect
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Both statements are correct

The correct answer is Both statements are correct (Option 3).
Statement 1 is correct: Population composition refers to the structural characteristics of a population including age, sex (gender), literacy, educational level, occupation, and economic status.
Statement 2 is correct: The Population Pyramid (age-sex pyramid) is a graphical representation that shows the distribution of various age groups and sexes in a population. It is a key tool for demographic analysis.
Option 1 - S1 correct S2 incorrect: Statement 2 is also correct, so this option is wrong.
Option 4 - Both incorrect: Both statements are factually accurate, so neither is incorrect.

Q107. By what process is the absolute increase in population calculated over a specific period, such as a decade?

  1. (a) Dividing the total population by the area
  2. (b) Subtracting the earlier population from the later population
  3. (c) Determining the percentage change per annum
  4. (d) Multiplying the births by the deaths and migrations
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Subtracting the earlier population from the later population

The absolute increase in population (also called absolute growth) is calculated by subtracting the population at the beginning of a period from the population at the end of that period: Absolute Increase = Population at end of period − Population at beginning of period. This gives the actual numerical increase in population. Option 2 is correct.
Option 1 is wrong: Dividing total population by area gives population density (persons per square km), not the absolute increase in population over time.
Option 3 is wrong: Determining the percentage change per annum gives the annual growth rate of population (a relative measure), not the absolute numerical increase in population.
Option 4 is wrong: Multiplying births by deaths and migrations is not a valid demographic formula; the correct population change formula adds births and immigrants and subtracts deaths and emigrants — it does not involve multiplication.

Q108. The urban population percentage of India in the 2011 Census was approximately:

  1. (a) 20%
  2. (b) 27%
  3. (c) 31%
  4. (d) 36%
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) 31%

The correct answer is 31% (Option 3).
According to the 2011 Census of India, approximately 31.16% of the population lived in urban areas, reflecting a significant rise in urbanization.
Option 1 - 20%: This figure is too low and does not match the 2011 Census data.
Option 2 - 27%: This was closer to the urban percentage in the 2001 Census, not 2011.
Option 4 - 36%: This overstates the urban population; India reached this level only later.
SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 12 December 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q109. Which of the following states or UTs had the smallest population in 2011?

  1. (a) Sikkim
  2. (b) Lakshadweep
  3. (c) Mizoram
  4. (d) Arunachal Pradesh
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Lakshadweep

Correct Answer: Lakshadweep (Option 2)
As per Census 2011, Lakshadweep had the smallest population among all states and Union Territories of India, with only 64,473 people. It is a group of small coral islands in the Arabian Sea.
Population comparison (Census 2011):
Lakshadweep: 64,473 (smallest)
Sikkim: 6,10,577
Mizoram: 10,97,206
Arunachal Pradesh: 13,83,727
All other options have significantly larger populations than Lakshadweep.

Q110. As per Census 2011, what was the population density of Bihar, the most densely populated state in India?

  1. (a) 918 persons/ sq km
  2. (b) 1029 persons/ sq km
  3. (c) 1102 persons/ sq km
  4. (d) 1138 persons/ sq km
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) 1102 persons/ sq km

Correct: 1102 persons/ sq km.
As per Census 2011, Bihar had a population density of 1,102 persons per sq km, making it the most densely populated state in India. The national average was 382 persons/ sq km. The other figures (918, 1029, 1138) are incorrect values.

Q111. As per Census 2011, what was the population density of India?

  1. (a) 421 persons per sq km
  2. (b) 394 persons per sq km
  3. (c) 382 persons per sq km
  4. (d) 365 persons per sq km
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) 382 persons per sq km

Correct Answer: 382 persons per sq km (Option 3)
As per the Census of India 2011, the population density of India was 382 persons per square kilometre. This was an increase from 325 persons per sq km recorded in the 2001 Census. Bihar had the highest population density (1,106 per sq km) among states, and Arunachal Pradesh the lowest.
421, 394, and 365 persons per sq km are incorrect figures not corresponding to Census 2011.

Q112. Which of the following states had the highest level of urbanization in India as per the 2011 Census?

  1. (a) Kerala
  2. (b) Goa
  3. (c) Tamil Nadu
  4. (d) West Bengal
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Goa

Correct Answer: Goa (Option 2)
As per Census 2011, Goa had the highest level of urbanization among Indian states with approximately 62.17% of its population living in urban areas. Goa's small size, tourism-driven economy, and high per capita income contribute to its high urbanization level.
Kerala had an urbanization rate of about 47.7% in 2011.
Tamil Nadu had an urbanization rate of about 48.4% in 2011.
West Bengal had an urbanization rate of about 31.9% in 2011.
Note: Among Union Territories, Delhi and Chandigarh have even higher urbanization rates, but among full states, Goa ranks highest.
SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 11 December 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q113. Consider the following statements about India's population growth since 1981 and choose the correct option:
1. The rate of population growth began to decline gradually after 1981.
2. Birth rates continued to rise sharply in the 1990s.
3. Despite declining growth rate, 182 million people were added in the 1990s.

  1. (a) Only 1 and 2 are correct
  2. (b) Only 2 and 3 are correct
  3. (c) Only 1 and 3 are correct
  4. (d) All 1, 2 and 3 all are correct
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Only 1 and 3 are correct

Correct Answer: Only 1 and 3 are correct (Option 3)
Statement 1 is CORRECT: After reaching its peak in the 1970s–1980s, India's population growth rate began to decline gradually post-1981. This decline continued steadily into the 21st century.
Statement 2 is INCORRECT: Birth rates did NOT continue to rise sharply in the 1990s. On the contrary, birth rates also declined during the 1990s due to improved family planning, literacy (especially of women), and access to healthcare.
Statement 3 is CORRECT: Despite the declining growth rate, such a large population base meant that in absolute numbers, approximately 182 million people were still added to India's population during the 1990s (momentum of population growth).
Therefore, only Statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Q114. According to Census 2011, which state had the lowest population density in India?

  1. (a) Sikkim
  2. (b) Nagaland
  3. (c) Arunachal Pradesh
  4. (d) Meghalaya
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Arunachal Pradesh

Correct Answer: Arunachal Pradesh
According to the 2011 Census, Arunachal Pradesh had the lowest population density in India at just 17 persons per square kilometer . This is due to its vast forested area, difficult terrain, and sparse settlements.
Option 1 (Sikkim): Incorrect. Sikkim has a density of 86 persons/ sq km.
Option 2 (Nagaland): Incorrect. Nagaland has a density of 119 persons/ sq km.
Option 4 (Meghalaya): Incorrect. Meghalaya has a density of 132 persons/ sq km.
SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 10 December 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q115. Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Choose the correct option:
Assertion (A): The death rate measures the number of deaths per 100 people in a population.
Reason (R): Death rate helps track the health and mortality trends in a region.

  1. (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
  2. (b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
  3. (c) A is true, but R is false
  4. (d) A is false, but R is true
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) A is false, but R is true

Correct Answer: A is false, but R is true
Assertion (A) is FALSE: The death rate (crude death rate) measures the number of deaths per 1,000 people in a population per year — NOT per 100 people. The statement of 'per 100' is incorrect.
Reason (R) is TRUE: Death rate is indeed used to track health and mortality trends in a region — it is a key demographic indicator.
Therefore, A is false but R is true.
SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 10 December 2025 Shift 2 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q116. Consider the following Assertion (A) and Reason (R) and choose the CORRECT option.
Assertion (A) - Modern technological development plays a very important role in determining the location of urban settlements.
Reason (R) - The location of the earliest urban settlement was dependent upon water, building material and fertile land.

  1. (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
  2. (b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
  3. (c) A is true, but R is false.
  4. (d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.

Correct Answer: Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
Assertion (A) is TRUE: Modern technology (transport networks, internet, energy) greatly influences where urban settlements grow today (e.g., tech hubs, industrial corridors).
Reason (R) is also TRUE: The earliest civilisations (Indus Valley, Mesopotamia, Nile) did locate near water, fertile land, and material resources — this is historically accurate.
However, R does NOT explain A: R talks about ancient settlements, while A talks about modern technology. The two statements are historically distinct and R does not logically explain why modern technology determines urban location. Hence, Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 10 December 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q117. Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Choose the correct option:
Assertion (A): Improvements in nutrition and public health reduce mortality rates.
Reason (R): Lower mortality leads to an immediate fall in birth rates.

  1. (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
  2. (b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
  3. (c) A is true, but R is false
  4. (d) A is false, but R is true
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) A is true, but R is false

Correct Answer: A is true, but R is false
Assertion (A) is TRUE: Improvements in nutrition, sanitation, and healthcare (vaccines, medicines) reduce mortality rates — this is well-established in demographic transition theory.
Reason (R) is FALSE: Lower mortality does NOT lead to an IMMEDIATE fall in birth rates. In fact, historically, birth rates take much longer to decline after mortality falls (this lag creates population explosion). Birth rates fall only gradually as education, women's empowerment, and family planning improve. R is factually incorrect.
Therefore, A is true but R is false.

Q118. Which of the following best defines population density in the context of India's demographic studies?

  1. (a) The number of people living in urban areas of a state
  2. (b) The ratio of employed individuals to the total population
  3. (c) The number of persons per unit area of land
  4. (d) The total population of a country divided by its total income
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) The number of persons per unit area of land

Population density is defined as the number of persons (people) living per unit area of land, typically expressed as persons per square kilometre.
Formula: Population Density = Total Population ÷ Total Land Area
According to the Census of India 2011, India's population density was 382 persons per sq km.
Option A (urban population): This defines urbanisation or urban share, not density.
Option B (employment ratio): This is the employment rate or labour force participation rate.
Option D (population ÷ income): This is a meaningless demographic ratio.

Q119. Which three states in the Northern Plains region have the highest population densities?

  1. (a) Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh
  2. (b) Uttarakhand, Bihar, Jharkhand
  3. (c) Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh
  4. (d) Assam, Haryana, Chhattisgarh
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh

Correct Answer: Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh
Among states in the Northern Plains, Bihar, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh have the highest population densities. Bihar has one of the highest population densities in India (~1,106 persons/ sq km), followed by West Bengal (~1,028) and Uttar Pradesh (~829) as per the 2011 census.
Option 1 (Punjab, Haryana, UP): Incorrect. Punjab and Haryana do not rank as high as Bihar and West Bengal.
Option 2 (Uttarakhand, Bihar, Jharkhand): Incorrect. Uttarakhand has a lower density due to hilly terrain.
Option 4 (Assam, Haryana, Chhattisgarh): Incorrect. Chhattisgarh is not a Northern Plains state.
SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 9 December 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q120. Which of the following statements correctly defines population stabilization?

  1. (a) It refers to the stage where fertility becomes higher than mortality
  2. (b) It refers to zero birth rate
  3. (c) It occurs when the difference between birth rate and death rate is negligible
  4. (d) It indicates exponential growth of urban population
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) It occurs when the difference between birth rate and death rate is negligible

Correct Answer: It occurs when the difference between birth rate and death rate is negligible
Population stabilization (Zero Population Growth) occurs when the birth rate and death rate are approximately equal, so the difference between them is negligible — resulting in no net growth in population. This is the condition for a stable population size.
Option 1: Incorrect. If fertility > mortality, population grows — that's not stabilization.
Option 2: Incorrect. Zero birth rate would mean no new births — an extreme scenario, not stabilization.
Option 4: Incorrect. Exponential urban growth is the opposite of stabilization.

Q121. In each of the following questions, a statement labeled Assertion (A) is given, followed by a statement labeled Reason (R).
Assertion (A): Migration can be driven by negative and positive circumstances.
Reason (R): Push factors make individuals migrate away from a region, whereas pull factors draw individuals to a region.

  1. (a) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
  2. (b) A is false, but R is true.
  3. (c) A is true, but R is false.
  4. (d) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.

Assertion (A) states that migration is influenced by both negative and positive circumstances. This is true because migration can occur due to adverse conditions (push factors such as poverty, unemployment, natural disasters, political instability) as well as attractive opportunities (pull factors such as employment, better living conditions, education, security). Reason (R) explains exactly this concept, by differentiating between push and pull factors. Therefore, both A and R are true, and R correctly explains A.
SSC Stenographer 2025 – 8 December 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q122. Which state has the lowest population in India?

  1. (a) Manipur
  2. (b) Arunachal Pradesh
  3. (c) Mizoram
  4. (d) Sikkim
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Sikkim

The correct answer is Sikkim , which is the least populated state in India. According to the 2011 Census , Sikkim had a population of about 6.1 lakh (610,577) , the lowest among all states. Its small geographical area, mountainous terrain, and limited arable land contribute to its low population density. In contrast, states like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra have very high populations. Despite its small population, Sikkim is known for its high literacy rate, rich biodiversity, and achievements such as being the first fully organic state of India.
SSC Stenographer 2025 – 8 December 2025 Shift 2 · Religious and linguistic composition (census data)

Q123. According to the classification of modern Indian languages, which linguistic family accounts for the largest share of the Indian population?

  1. (a) Sino-Tibetan (Kirata)
  2. (b) Dravidian
  3. (c) Austric ( Nishada )
  4. (d) Indo-European (Aryan)
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Indo-European (Aryan)

The correct answer is Indo-European (Aryan) . The majority of India’s population speaks languages belonging to the Indo-European (or Indo-Aryan) family, which is a major branch of the larger Indo-European language group. These include Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Assamese, Odia, Kashmiri, Konkani, and many others . About 75% of Indians speak Indo-Aryan languages. In comparison, Dravidian languages (like Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam) account for about 20–22% of the population, while Sino-Tibetan and Austric languages are spoken by much smaller communities, mainly in the North-East and tribal belts.

Q124. According to Census 2011 which Indian State/UT has no Scheduled Tribe?

  1. (a) Puducherry
  2. (b) Goa
  3. (c) Kerala
  4. (d) Chhattisgarh
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Puducherry

The correct answer is Puducherry . As per the Census of India 2011 , all states and most union territories in India have Scheduled Tribe (ST) populations, except Puducherry . While states like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and the North-Eastern states have a very high concentration of Scheduled Tribes, Puducherry recorded no Scheduled Tribe population in the 2011 Census. This makes Puducherry unique in terms of demographic composition.

Q125. Which economic consequence of migration is generally considered a challenge for the destination regions in India, particularly concerning unskilled rural migrants?

  1. (a) Balanced regional development across states
  2. (b) Exploitation of migrant labor and the growth of informal sector employment
  3. (c) Increased per capita income due to the inflow of highly skilled labor
  4. (d) Reduction in pressure on land resources and unemployment rates
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Exploitation of migrant labor and the growth of informal sector employment

The correct answer is Exploitation of migrant labor and the growth of informal sector employment . When large numbers of unskilled rural migrants move to cities, they usually lack formal education and job skills. As a result, they are absorbed into the informal sector where jobs are insecure, poorly paid, and often exploitative. This creates economic challenges for urban regions, as it increases pressure on civic infrastructure while failing to provide social security to workers. The rise of informal employment limits long-term economic stability and contributes to social inequalities in the destination areas.

Q126. Which of the following statements best explains why certain regions exhibit high population density?

  1. (a) Regions with limited natural resources tend to have Areas with scarce natural resources have higher population concentrations because of greater competition for few materials.
  2. (b) High population density is predominantly found in areas with poor infrastructure and limited access to essential services.
  3. (c) Regions offering fertile land, favorable climates, abundant natural resources, and robust economic opportunities are more likely to have high population densities.
  4. (d) Areas characterized by mountainous terrain and arid climates often support dense populations because of their challenging living conditions.
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Regions offering fertile land, favorable climates, abundant natural resources, and robust economic opportunities are more likely to have high population densities.

The regions that have fertile land, favorable climate, abundant natural resources and good economic opportunities usually attract a large number of people. Fertile soil ensures continuous agricultural production, favorable climate makes living conditions comfortable, abundant resources support industries and livelihoods, and economic opportunities generate employment. These combined advantages result in higher population density. For example, the Indo-Gangetic plain in India, the Nile valley in Egypt and the Yangtze basin in China are some of the most densely populated regions of the world. On the other hand, deserts, mountains and extreme climate regions remain sparsely populated due to harsh living conditions. Hence, the correct answer is Option 3.
SSC Stenographer 2025 – 7 December 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q127. In which decade did India experience a negative growth rate in population?

  1. (a) 1901–1911
  2. (b) 1911–1921
  3. (c) 1931–1941
  4. (d) 2001–2011
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 1911–1921

India’s population growth has generally been positive across all census decades, except for 1911–1921 , which is historically known as the “ Decade of Great Demographic Disaster .” During this period, India witnessed a negative growth rate of –0.31% . The main reasons were widespread epidemics like the 1918 influenza pandemic , which killed millions, coupled with famines, poverty, and the aftermath of World War I. This was the only decade in Indian census history when the population actually declined instead of growing. Hence, the correct answer is Option 2: 1911–1921.
SSC Stenographer 2025 – 7 December 2025 Shift 3 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q128. Which of the following correctly matches the population growth phase in India with its key characteristic?

  1. (a) Phase IV (Post-1981) – Sudden increase in fertility rate due to migration
  2. (b) Phase III (1951-1981) – Population explosion caused by falling death rate and high fertility
  3. (c) Phase II (1921-1951) – High mortality rate and declining birth rate
  4. (d) Phase I (1901-1921) – Rapid population explosion due to low mortality and high fertility
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Phase III (1951-1981) – Population explosion caused by falling death rate and high fertility

The correct answer is option 2. India’s demographic history can be divided into distinct phases. Between 1951 and 1981 (Phase III) , India experienced a population explosion . This was primarily due to a sharp decline in the death rate as a result of medical advancements, better healthcare, improved sanitation, and disease control, while the birth rate remained high . This mismatch between falling death rates and still high fertility led to rapid growth in population. In contrast, Phase I (1901-1921) was a period of stagnant growth, Phase II (1921-1951) marked the beginning of growth with mortality decline, and Phase IV (post-1981) saw declining fertility rates leading towards population stabilization.
SSC Stenographer 2025 – 7 December 2025 Shift 3 · Sex ratio and child sex ratio

Q129. Which of the following factors contributes to the low child sex ratio in some economically developed Northern states of India?
Increased accessibility to prenatal sex-determination methods
High levels of female literacy and empowerment
Societal preference for male children in inheritance and family support
Strengthened enforcement of gender-equal policies

  1. (a) 2 and 4
  2. (b) 1 and 4
  3. (c) 2 and 3
  4. (d) 1 and 3
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 1 and 3

The major factors responsible for the low child sex ratio in some economically developed Northern states of India are (1) increased accessibility to prenatal sex-determination methods and (3) societal preference for male children in inheritance and family support . Economic prosperity in these regions provided easier access to modern medical technology, which unfortunately was misused for sex-selective abortions. At the same time, deep-rooted cultural and social preferences for sons—linked to inheritance rights, continuation of family lineage, and old-age support—further reduced the survival chances of girl children. This combination of technology misuse and patriarchal mindset is the main cause behind the declining child sex ratio.

Q130. Which Union Territory has the highest population density as per Census 2011?

  1. (a) Puducherry
  2. (b) Lakshadweep
  3. (c) Chandigarh
  4. (d) Delhi
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Delhi

The correct answer is Delhi . As per the Census of India 2011, Delhi recorded the highest population density among Union Territories , with 11,320 persons per square kilometre . This extreme density is due to Delhi being the national capital, attracting massive rural-to-urban migration, rapid urbanisation , and concentration of administrative, commercial, and service-sector activities. Puducherry had a density of around 2,598 persons per sq km , influenced by its coastal settlements. Lakshadweep had a density of about 2,149 persons per sq km , owing to its limited land area. Chandigarh recorded around 9,252 persons per sq km , making it very dense, but still lower than Delhi. Thus, Delhi stands out as the Union Territory with the highest population density in 2011 .
SSC Stenographer 2025 – 6 December 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q131. What shape does a population pyramid take for a rapidly growing population?

  1. (a) Circular shape
  2. (b) Rectangular shape
  3. (c) Inverted triangle shape
  4. (d) Triangular shape
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Triangular shape

The correct answer is Triangular shape . A population pyramid shows the distribution of a population by age and sex. In the case of a rapidly growing population , the pyramid has a very broad base (indicating a high birth rate and large number of young people) and a very narrow top (indicating fewer elderly people due to low life expectancy). This triangular shape reflects countries with high fertility rates and relatively high mortality rates, usually seen in developing nations. Over time, as growth stabilizes, the pyramid may take a more rectangular shape.
SSC Stenographer 2025 – 6 December 2025 Shift 3 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q132. Which of the following statements are correct?
(1) Birth rate measures the number of children born per 1000 people annually.
(2) Pull factors include opportunities that attract people to new regions.
(3) Death rate is always higher than birth rate.
(4) Push factors can include civil unrest and lack of jobs.

  1. (a) All of the above
  2. (b) 1, 2, and 4 only
  3. (c) 2 and 3 only
  4. (d) 1 and 3 only
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 4 only

The correct statements are (1), (2), and (4). Statement (1) is correct because birth rate is defined as the number of live births per 1000 individuals in a population per year, and it is a key demographic indicator used to study population growth. Statement (2) is correct as pull factors are positive conditions like job opportunities, better education, health facilities, or security that attract people to migrate to new areas. Statement (4) is also correct because push factors such as unemployment, poverty, war, or civil unrest drive people to leave their place of origin. Statement (3) is incorrect because the death rate is not always higher than the birth rate; in fact, in most developing countries, birth rates are usually much higher than death rates, leading to rapid population growth.

Q133. Which Indian Union Territory has the most Scheduled Castes?

  1. (a) Chandigarh
  2. (b) Ladakh
  3. (c) Lakshadweep
  4. (d) Delhi
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Delhi

Among the Union Territories of India, Delhi has the largest Scheduled Caste (SC) population . According to census data, Delhi has a significant share of SC communities because of its dense urban population and migration from neighbouring states such as Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan. The proportion of SCs in Delhi is higher compared to other UTs like Chandigarh, Ladakh, or Lakshadweep, which either have small populations or negligible SC communities. Hence, the correct answer is Delhi.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 30 November 2025 Shift 3 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q134. Which of the following is NOT a type of rural settlements?
I. Hamleted
II. Dispersed

  1. (a) Only I
  2. (b) Only II
  3. (c) Both I and II
  4. (d) Neither I nor II
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Neither I nor II

Correct Answer: Option 4 – Neither I nor II
Both Hamleted (I) and Dispersed (II) ARE recognised types of rural settlements in Geography:
Hamleted (Semi-nucleated): A settlement split into several small clusters/hamlets, often due to social or topographical reasons.
Dispersed (Scattered): Settlements where houses are spread widely apart, often found in hilly or forested areas.
Since both I and II are genuine types of rural settlements, neither of them is 'NOT a type' — hence the answer is Neither I nor II.
Why other options are wrong:
Options 1, 2, 3 all wrongly exclude one or both as types — but both Hamleted and Dispersed are valid, recognised categories.

Q135. What was the density of India in per square km as per census 1951?

  1. (a) 77
  2. (b) 97
  3. (c) 117
  4. (d) 217
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) 117

Correct Answer: Option 3 – 117
As per the 1951 Census of India, the population density of India was 117 persons per square kilometre . India's population density has increased significantly over decades — from 117 (1951) to 382 (2011).
Why other options are wrong:
Option 1 (77): This figure is too low; 77 per sq km is not the recorded 1951 density.
Option 2 (97): Incorrect; 97 is not the recorded 1951 Census density figure for India.
Option 4 (217): This figure is closer to later census years (around 1991), not 1951.

Q136. Which of the following is an example of Administration town in India?
I. Shillong
II. Chandigarh

  1. (a) Only I
  2. (b) Only II
  3. (c) Both I and II
  4. (d) Neither I nor II
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Both I and II

Correct Answer: Option 3 – Both I and II
Both Shillong and Chandigarh are examples of Administrative towns in India.
Shillong (I): The capital of Meghalaya, it is a planned administrative centre developed during British rule.
Chandigarh (II): A Union Territory and planned city designed by Le Corbusier, it serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana — a classic example of a modern administrative city in India.
Why other options are wrong:
Option 1 (Only I): Incorrect; Chandigarh is also a prime example of an administrative town.
Option 2 (Only II): Incorrect; Shillong also qualifies as an administrative town.
Option 4 (Neither I nor II): Incorrect; both are well-known administrative towns.

Q137. Which of the following factor affect the distribution of population?
I. Topography
II. Climate

  1. (a) Only I
  2. (b) Only II
  3. (c) Both I and II
  4. (d) Neither I nor II
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Both I and II

Both factors affect the distribution of population:
Statement I: Topography - flat and fertile plains attract dense populations (e.g., the Indo-Gangetic Plain), while mountainous and rugged terrain has sparse populations.
Statement II: Climate - temperate and tropical regions with moderate rainfall support dense populations, while extreme climates (very hot deserts, very cold polar regions) have sparse populations.
Hence, Both I and II is the correct answer.

Q138. Which of the following is NOT a push factor of migration?

  1. (a) Unemployment
  2. (b) Poor living conditions
  3. (c) Political turmoil
  4. (d) Better job opportunities
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Better job opportunities

Better job opportunities is a PULL factor of migration, not a push factor. Pull factors attract people to a new place, while push factors drive people away from their current location.
Unemployment is a push factor that compels people to migrate in search of work.
Poor living conditions push people to seek better quality of life elsewhere.
Political turmoil forces people to flee their region for safety.
Better job opportunities at the destination is a pull factor, hence the correct answer.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 28 November 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q139. Which of the following is consider as natural cause of population change?
I. Births
II. Migrations

  1. (a) Only I
  2. (b) Only II
  3. (c) Both I and II
  4. (d) Neither I nor II
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Only I

In demography, natural causes of population change refer to births and deaths — factors arising from biological processes. Births (fertility) increase population, while deaths (mortality) decrease it. Together, the difference (births minus deaths) is called Natural Growth Rate.
Migrations (Statement II) are NOT natural causes — they are social, economic, or political factors that cause population movement. Migration is a demographic factor but belongs to the category of mechanical/social change.
Hence, Only I (Births) is correct.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 25 November 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q140. The decades _____ are referred to as the period of steady population growth.

  1. (a) 1921-1951
  2. (b) 1921-1941
  3. (c) 1911-1931
  4. (d) 1931-1981
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 1921-1951

In Indian demographic history, the decades 1921-1951 are referred to as the period of steady population growth. After 1921 (the 'year of the Great Divide' when population decline reversed), India's population grew steadily due to improvements in healthcare, reduced famines, and better living conditions.
The period before 1921 saw stagnant or declining population. 1921-1941 covers only part of this phase. 1911-1931 and 1931-1981 are incorrect boundaries.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 25 November 2025 Shift 3 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q141. During 1911-1921, what kind of population growth was recorded in India?

  1. (a) High population growth
  2. (b) Negative population growth
  3. (c) Steady population growth
  4. (d) Population explosion
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Negative population growth

During 1911-1921, India recorded negative population growth. This decade is known as the 'Great Divide' in India's demographic history. The negative growth was caused by multiple calamities: the devastating Spanish Influenza pandemic of 1918-19 (which killed millions), severe famines, and plague outbreaks.
High population growth, steady growth, and population explosion are incorrect descriptions for this period. Hence, Negative population growth is correct.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 24 November 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q142. The period from ___ is referred to as a period of stagnant or stationary phase of growth of India's population.

  1. (a) 1901-1921
  2. (b) 1921-1941
  3. (c) 1911-1931
  4. (d) 1891-1921
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 1901-1921

Correct Answer: 1901-1921 (Option 1)
The period 1901-1921 is referred to as the 'stagnant' or 'stationary' phase of India's population growth. During this period, India experienced multiple famines (1900, 1905), bubonic plague epidemics, and the devastating 1918 influenza pandemic, which led to very high death rates. Population growth was negligible, and 1921 is called the 'Year of the Great Divide' in Indian demographic history — the year death rates began to decline consistently.
1921-1941 is the 'early expanding phase,' when declining death rates led to faster population growth.
1911-1931 spans both the stagnant phase and the beginning of expansion — it is not classified as a single stagnant phase.
1891-1921 is a broader period that is sometimes described as static, but 1901-1921 is the standard textbook period for the stagnant phase in Indian demographic transition.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 24 November 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q143. According to the Census 2011, which state had a negative growth rate in decadal population?

  1. (a) Nagaland
  2. (b) Mizoram
  3. (c) Daman & Diu
  4. (d) Lakshadweep
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Nagaland

Correct Answer: Nagaland (Option 1)
According to Census 2011, Nagaland was the only state in India to record a negative decadal population growth rate of -0.47%. This means the population of Nagaland actually decreased between 2001 and 2011. This was partly attributed to outmigration and revision of earlier census data.
Why others are wrong:
Option 2 - Mizoram: Mizoram recorded a positive growth rate in Census 2011.
Option 3 - Daman & Diu: This Union Territory had a very high positive growth rate due to in-migration of workers.
Option 4 - Lakshadweep: It recorded a positive (though modest) growth rate.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 24 November 2025 Shift 2 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q144. Which of the following is a factor responsible for having different types of rural settlements in India?
I. Physical features
II. Social structure

  1. (a) Only I
  2. (b) Only II
  3. (c) Both I and II
  4. (d) Neither I nor II
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Both I and II

Correct Answer: Both I and II (Option 3)
Both physical features and social structure are responsible for different types of rural settlements in India.
Statement I is correct: Physical features like terrain (plains, hills, forests), water availability, and soil type determine the pattern and type of rural settlements. For instance, clustered settlements are common in plains, while dispersed settlements occur in hilly areas.
Statement II is correct: Social structure including caste system, tribal customs, and community ties also shape rural settlements. In many parts of India, villages are organised along caste lines, affecting settlement patterns.
Hence, both I and II are correct.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 24 November 2025 Shift 3 · Census - history and organisation

Q145. The Census of India is conducted under the provisions of the Census Act, ___.

  1. (a) 1948
  2. (b) 1965
  3. (c) 1932
  4. (d) 1954
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 1948

Correct Answer: 1948 (Option 1)
The Census of India is conducted under the provisions of the Census Act, 1948. This act provides the legal framework for conducting the decennial census (every 10 years) in India, including the powers of census officers, the duty of citizens to answer questions, and the confidentiality of individual data. India has been conducting census since 1872 (first synchronised census in 1881).
1965 — no major Census Act was enacted in this year.
1932 — the pre-independence era; the Census Act was not enacted then.
1954 — no Census Act was enacted in 1954.

Q146. What was the literacy rate of India as per census 1951?

  1. (a) 18.33%
  2. (b) 28.33%
  3. (c) 10.33%
  4. (d) 9.33%
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 18.33%

Correct Answer: 18.33% (Option 1)
According to the Census of India 1951 (the first census after independence), the literacy rate of India was 18.33%. At that time, only about 18 out of every 100 Indians could read and write. Since then, India's literacy rate has improved significantly — reaching 74.04% in the 2011 Census. The low literacy in 1951 was a result of colonial-era neglect of mass education.
Why other options are wrong:
Option 2 - 28.33%: This figure is higher than the actual 1951 literacy rate.
Option 3 - 10.33%: This is lower than the actual 1951 literacy rate.
Option 4 - 9.33%: This is significantly lower than the recorded literacy rate of 1951.

Q147. There are broadly _____ sets of factors that influence migration.

  1. (a) 2
  2. (b) 3
  3. (c) 4
  4. (d) 5
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 2

There are broadly 2 sets of factors influencing migration: push factors and pull factors.
Push factors: conditions at the place of origin that compel people to leave (poverty, unemployment, natural disasters).
Pull factors: conditions at the destination that attract migrants (better employment, higher wages, better education).
This is the standard geographical framework for studying migration. The candidate incorrectly selected 5.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 21 November 2025 Shift 3 · Census - history and organisation

Q148. The first complete census of an Indian city was conducted in _____.

  1. (a) 1. 1830
  2. (b) 2. 1810
  3. (c) 3. 1840
  4. (d) 4. 1820
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 1. 1830

The first complete census of an Indian city was conducted in 1830, covering the city of Dacca (present-day Dhaka, Bangladesh). This was conducted during British colonial rule as part of early attempts to document urban population. Options 2 (1810), 3 (1840), and 4 (1820) are incorrect years.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 21 November 2025 Shift 3 · Census - history and organisation

Q149. During British rule in India, caste data was regularly collected in decennial censuses from 1881 to _____.

  1. (a) 1. 1921
  2. (b) 2. 1911
  3. (c) 3. 1931
  4. (d) 4. 1901
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) 3. 1931

During British colonial rule in India, caste data was systematically collected in every decennial (10-year) census from 1881 to 1931. After 1931, the British discontinued the practice of collecting detailed caste data in censuses. The 1941 census was done during World War II with limited scope, and post-independence censuses (1951 onwards) did not record caste except for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 21 November 2025 Shift 2 · Religious and linguistic composition (census data)

Q150. Which religious community had the second-largest population in India as per Census 2011?

  1. (a) Christian
  2. (b) Sikh
  3. (c) Muslim
  4. (d) Buddhist
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Muslim

Correct Answer: Muslim (Option 3)
As per the 2011 Census of India, the religious population breakdown is:
1. Hindu: 79.8% (966.3 million) — largest
2. Muslim: 14.2% (172.2 million) — second largest
3. Christian: 2.3% (27.8 million)
4. Sikh: 1.7% (20.8 million)
5. Buddhist: 0.7% (8.4 million)
Thus, Muslims form the second-largest religious community in India as per 2011 Census. Options Christian, Sikh, and Buddhist are smaller religious communities.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 18 November 2025 Shift 1 · Sex ratio and child sex ratio

Q151. As per census 2001, what was the sex ratio of India?

  1. (a) 933
  2. (b) 912
  3. (c) 920
  4. (d) 981
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 933

As per the Census 2001, the sex ratio of India was 933 females per 1000 males. This was an improvement from the 1991 census figure of 929. The sex ratio has been improving over successive censuses, reaching 943 in the 2011 census. Why other options are wrong: Option 2 (912): This figure does not correspond to any major census year. Option 3 (920): Incorrect; the 2001 census recorded 933, not 920. Option 4 (981): This is the overall sex ratio as per the 2011 census data when considering total population including 0-6 age group in certain states; the national figure for Census 2001 was 933.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 18 November 2025 Shift 3 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q152. Among these, which state experienced a population of over 100 million as per 2011 Census?

  1. (a) West Bengal
  2. (b) Madhya Pradesh
  3. (c) Bihar
  4. (d) Rajasthan
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Bihar

Correct Answer: Bihar (Option 3)
As per the 2011 Census, Bihar had a population of approximately 104.1 million (10.4 crore), making it one of the states with over 100 million population. The states that crossed 100 million population in 2011 were Uttar Pradesh (~200 million), Maharashtra (~112 million), and Bihar (~104 million).
West Bengal had a population of ~91.3 million (below 100 million). Madhya Pradesh had ~72.6 million. Rajasthan had ~68.6 million. Hence among the given options, only Bihar exceeded 100 million.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 14 November 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q153. There are mainly ________ main processes of change of population.

  1. (a) 2
  2. (b) 3
  3. (c) 4
  4. (d) 5
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 3

There are mainly 3 main processes of change of population: (1) Birth rate — the rate at which new individuals are born; (2) Death rate (Mortality) — the rate at which individuals die; and (3) Migration — movement of people into (immigration) or out of (emigration) an area. These three processes together determine whether a population grows, shrinks, or remains stable.

Q154. The level of urbanisation in India in 2011 was _____.

  1. (a) 31.16%
  2. (b) 41.16%
  3. (c) 21.16%
  4. (d) 45.16%
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 31.16%

Correct Answer: 31.16%
As per the Census of India 2011, the level of urbanisation in India was 31.16%, meaning approximately 31% of India's population lived in urban areas. This was up from 27.81% in the 2001 Census. The urban population in 2011 was about 377 million out of a total population of 1.21 billion.
Why other options are wrong:
- 41.16%: Higher than the actual 2011 urbanisation figure.
- 21.16%: Lower than the actual figure; this was closer to 1981 levels.
- 45.16%: Too high; India has not yet crossed 40% urbanisation even in recent years.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 13 November 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q155. In the context of population change, if the birth rate is _____ than death rate, the population will _____.

  1. (a) more, be increase
  2. (b) more, be decrease
  3. (c) less, be increase
  4. (d) less, remain same
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) more, be increase

Correct Answer: more, be increase
Population growth depends on the relationship between birth rate and death rate:
- If birth rate > death rate: Population increases (positive natural growth rate).
- If birth rate < death rate: Population decreases (negative natural growth rate).
- If birth rate = death rate: Population remains stable (zero natural growth rate).
Therefore, if the birth rate is MORE than the death rate, the population will INCREASE.
Why other options are wrong:
- More, be decrease: If births exceed deaths, population grows, not decreases.
- Less, be increase: If births are fewer than deaths, population declines.
- Less, remain same: If births are fewer than deaths, population decreases, not remains stable.

Q156. As of February 2025, Scheduled Tribe (ST) individuals comprising ___ of the total population in India.

  1. (a) 8.6%
  2. (b) 5.5%
  3. (c) 9.8%
  4. (d) 12.2%
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 8.6%

As per the data available up to February 2025 (based on Census 2011 figures, which remain the reference), Scheduled Tribe (ST) individuals comprise approximately 8.6% of India's total population. This amounts to around 10.45 crore people. Why others are wrong: - 5.5%: This figure is lower than the actual ST population share. - 9.8%: This is not the correct ST population percentage. - 12.2%: This percentage is higher than the actual figure and does not correspond to the ST population.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 12 November 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q157. What led to the decline in mortality rate in India during 1921–1951?

  1. (a) Second World War
  2. (b) Improved health and sanitation
  3. (c) Increase in birth rate
  4. (d) Artificial intelligence
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Improved health and sanitation

The decline in mortality rate in India during 1921–1951 was primarily driven by improved health and sanitation measures, including vaccination campaigns, control of epidemic diseases (plague, cholera, malaria), introduction of antibiotics, and better public health infrastructure. The Second World War had no direct positive impact on India's mortality. Increase in birth rate raises population, not reduces mortality. Artificial intelligence did not exist during this period.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 12 November 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q158. What led to the decline in mortality rate in India during 1921-1951?

  1. (a) Second world war
  2. (b) Improved health and sanitation
  3. (c) Increase in birth rate
  4. (d) Artificial intelligence
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Improved health and sanitation

Correct Answer: Improved health and sanitation
During 1921?1951, the mortality rate in India declined primarily due to improvements in health infrastructure and sanitation, including:
- Control of epidemic diseases like plague, cholera, and smallpox.
- Introduction of modern medicines and vaccines.
- Expansion of hospitals and health services.
- Better sanitation and safe drinking water in urban areas.
This period is known as the beginning of the 'demographic transition' in India.
Why other options are wrong:
- Second World War (1939?1945): Actually caused increased mortality in some regions, not a decline.
- Increase in birth rate: Birth rate affects population growth, not mortality rate directly.
- Artificial intelligence: Did not exist during this period.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 14 October 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q159. In demographic terms, death rate is measured over which standard unit?

  1. (a) Per hundred people
  2. (b) Per year
  3. (c) Per ten thousand people
  4. (d) Per thousand people in a year
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Per thousand people in a year

Death rate (crude death rate) is defined as the number of deaths per 1,000 people in a given population per year.
Answer: Option 4 (Per thousand people in a year)
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 24 September 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q160. Consider the following about population growth in India:
Statement-I: The population pyramid in India is broad at the base and top and narrow in the middle.
Statement-II: India has a large proportion of young population due to high birth rates and declining death rates.
Which one of the following is CORRECT in respect of the above statements?

  1. (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
  2. (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
  3. (c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
  4. (d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Statement-I is incorrect: India's population pyramid is broad at the base and narrows towards the top (typical of a young population), not broad at top.
Statement-II is correct: India has a large young population because of historically high birth rates and steadily declining death rates.
Hence I is incorrect but II is correct.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 24 September 2025 Shift 3 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q161. The dispersed rural settlements can be found predominantly in which of the following areas of India?
1. In the Bundelkhand region of central India
2. In the state of Chhattisgarh
3. In the lower plains of the River Ganga
4. In the hilly states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh
Select the CORRECT answer using the code given below:

  1. (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
  2. (b) 1 and 4 only
  3. (c) 1, 2, 3 and 4
  4. (d) 4 only
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 4 only

Dispersed (scattered) rural settlements occur where land is rugged, water sources scattered or agriculture limited.
Such conditions exist mainly in the hilly states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
Bundelkhand, Chhattisgarh and the Ganga plains have predominantly nucleated/clustered settlements.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 19 September 2025 Shift 2 · Sex ratio and child sex ratio

Q162. Which of the Indian States/Union Territories had lowest sex ratio in 2011?

  1. (a) Haryana
  2. (b) Daman and Diu
  3. (c) Punjab
  4. (d) Dadar and Nagar Haveli
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Daman and Diu

According to Census 2011, Daman and Diuhad the lowest sex ratio at 618 females per 1000 males.
This was due to a heavy male migrant population in the industrial workforce.
Hence the answer isDaman and Diu.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 18 September 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q163. Which of the following statements best explains why age-specific rates are used in demography?

  1. (a) They help identify regional literacy levels
  2. (b) They reflect age-wise variation in fertility or mortality
  3. (c) They show the economic condition of elderly people
  4. (d) They reduce the total number of indicators needed
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) They reflect age-wise variation in fertility or mortality

Age-specific rates capture how fertility and mortality rates vary across different age groups, giving more precise demographic analysis.
Answer: They reflect age-wise variation in fertility or mortality
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 18 September 2025 Shift 3 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q164. Which of the following statements is correct regarding population stabilization?

  1. (a) Stabilization occurs when birth rate exceeds death rate
  2. (b) Stabilization is reached when fertility rate drops to zero
  3. (c) Stabilization occurs when birth and death rates are nearly equal
  4. (d) Stabilization refers to doubling of population every decade
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Stabilization occurs when birth and death rates are nearly equal

• Population stabilization (or zero population growth) occurs when the birth rate and death rate become nearly equal.
• When births equal deaths, the net population growth is zero, leading to a stable population.
• This is also related to the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) reaching replacement level (~2.1).
• Answer: Stabilization occurs when birth and death rates are nearly equal
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 17 September 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q165. Which of the following is unrelated to the components of population change?

  1. (a) Births
  2. (b) Deaths
  3. (c) Migration
  4. (d) Employment
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Employment

Population change is governed by three components: births, deaths and migration.
Employment affects economic conditions but is not a direct demographic component of population change.
Hence Employment is unrelated.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 16 September 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q166. Uttar Pradesh accounted for approximately what percent of India’s total population in 2011?

  1. (a) 10%
  2. (b) 12%
  3. (c) 16%
  4. (d) 18%
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) 16%

Uttar Pradesh had a population of about 199 million in 2011 out of India’s ~1.21 billion.
This works out to approximately 16.5%, hence about 16% of the country’s total population.

Q167. What was India's urban population percentage in Census 2011?

  1. (a) 24%
  2. (b) 31%
  3. (c) 36%
  4. (d) 41%
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 31%

Census 2011 records India’s urban population at approximately 31.16%, marking the first inter-census decade where the urban absolute growth exceeded the rural growth.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 15 September 2025 Shift 3 · Census - history and organisation

Q168. Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Choose the correct option:
Assertion (A): The Population Enumeration phase of Census 2011 in most parts of India was conducted in February 2011.
Reason (R): House Listing and Housing Census was postponed to ensure simultaneous data collection.

  1. (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
  2. (b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
  3. (c) A is true, but R is false
  4. (d) A is false, but R is true
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) A is true, but R is false

• Assertion A: Population Enumeration for Census 2011 was conducted in February-March 2011 in most states of India. ✓
• Reason R: The House Listing and Housing Census was NOT postponed — it was conducted BEFORE Population Enumeration, in April–September 2010.
• The two phases are done sequentially, not simultaneously. Reason R is factually incorrect. ✗
• Answer: A is true, but R is false
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 14 September 2025 Shift 1 · Demographic concepts and transition

Q169. Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Choose the correct option:
Assertion (A): Demographic statistics like birth and death rates rely on accurate reporting by households.
Reason (R): Birth and death registration is mandatory and always accurately followed in all parts of India.

  1. (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
  2. (b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation
  3. (c) A is true, but R is false
  4. (d) A is false, but R is true
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) A is true, but R is false

A is true: vital statistics such as crude birth rate and death rate depend on accurate household reporting and registration.
R is false: under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act registration is mandatory in law, but in practice it is not 'always accurately followed in all parts of India' — under-reporting is well documented, especially in rural areas.
Since A is true and R is false, the correct option is option 3.

Q170. Which of the following best explains how mineral deposits influence population distribution?

  1. (a) They improve soil fertility
  2. (b) They reduce need for employment
  3. (c) They attract industries and create jobs
  4. (d) They lead to deforestation only
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) They attract industries and create jobs

Mineral deposits attract mining industries, processing plants, and related businesses.
This creates employment opportunities, which draws population to those regions.
Examples: Jharkhand (coal/iron ore), Chhattisgarh (minerals) — dense industrial populations.
They do not directly improve soil fertility.
Answer: They attract industries and create jobs
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 13 September 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q171. Which Indian state recorded negative population growth between 2001–2011?

  1. (a) Kerala
  2. (b) Goa
  3. (c) Nagaland
  4. (d) Manipur
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Nagaland

According to Census 2011 data, Nagaland was the only major Indian state to record a negative decadal population growth rate (about −0.6%) between 2001 and 2011.
Kerala, Goa and Manipur all showed positive (though comparatively low) growth.
Hence the correct answer is Nagaland.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 13 September 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q172. Which of the following best describes the rate of natural increase of population?

  1. (a) It is the crude birth rate multiplied by crude death rate
  2. (b) It is the ratio of working population to total population
  3. (c) It is the difference between the birth rate and the death rate
  4. (d) It is the average annual growth due to migration alone
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) It is the difference between the birth rate and the death rate

Rate of natural increase = Crude Birth Rate − Crude Death Rate (usually expressed per 1,000 population).
It measures the population growth that comes only from births and deaths (not migration).
It is not the product of CBR and CDR, nor the ratio of working to total population, nor the growth due to migration alone.
Hence the correct definition is: It is the difference between the birth rate and the death rate.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 13 September 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q173. Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Choose the correct option:
Assertion (A): Population growth can be measured in absolute numbers and percentage change per year.
Reason (R): Measuring growth only in absolute numbers provides detailed insights into population trends over time.

  1. (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
  2. (b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
  3. (c) A is true, but R is false
  4. (d) A is false, but R is true
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) A is true, but R is false

• Population Growth measurement:
• Assertion A: Population growth CAN be measured in absolute numbers (e.g., +10 million) AND as percentage change per year — TRUE ✓
• Reason R: Measuring ONLY in absolute numbers does NOT provide detailed insights into trends; percentage change is needed for meaningful comparison between countries/periods — FALSE.
• Reason R is incorrect because absolute numbers alone are insufficient for trend analysis.
• Answer: A is true, but R is false

Q174. What is meant by population density?

  1. (a) Population per household
  2. (b) People per square kilometre
  3. (c) People per region
  4. (d) People per district
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) People per square kilometre

Population density is defined as the number of people living per unit area of land — the standard unit being one square kilometre.
'Population per household' gives household size, not density.
'People per region' or 'people per district' are not standardised measures of density because the area of a region/district varies.
Hence population density = people per square kilometre.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 12 September 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q175. Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Choose the correct option:
Assertion (A): Population explosion occurs when death rates decline rapidly but birth rates remain high.
Reason (R): Societal reproductive behaviour changes instantly with improvements in healthcare.

  1. (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
  2. (b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation
  3. (c) A is true, but R is false
  4. (d) A is false, but R is true
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) A is true, but R is false

A is true: in the second stage of demographic transition, falling death rates with persistently high birth rates produce a 'population explosion'.
R is false: societal reproductive behaviour does not change instantly with improvements in healthcare; it changes slowly with education, urbanisation and changing economic incentives — that is precisely why birth rates remain high while death rates fall, causing the explosion.
Since A is true and R is false, the correct option is 3.

Q176. Which state / union territory had the highest urbanisation in 2011, as per the Census of India data?

  1. (a) Meghalaya
  2. (b) Delhi
  3. (c) Assam
  4. (d) Chandigarh
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Delhi

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 9 September 2025 Shift 3 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q177. Why are tribal settlements usually located in remote and forested areas of India?

  1. (a) Due to easy access to modern infrastructure
  2. (b) Because forests provide natural resources and livelihood
  3. (c) Because government policies force them to live there
  4. (d) Because they are not allowed to enter cities
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Because forests provide natural resources and livelihood

Q178. Which Union Territory of India recorded the highest population density in 2011, as per Census data?

  1. (a) Lakshadweep
  2. (b) Chandigarh
  3. (c) Puducherry
  4. (d) Delhi
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Delhi

Q179. Which of the following is a major challenge for Indian cities due to rapid urbanisation?

  1. (a) Decline in urban unemployment
  2. (b) Improved access to green spaces
  3. (c) Pressure on infrastructure and services
  4. (d) Enhanced walkability in all city zones
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Pressure on infrastructure and services

Q180. Which of the following factors most influences the uneven distribution of population in India?

  1. (a) Soil fertility and water availability
  2. (b) Trade union policies
  3. (c) Language diversity
  4. (d) National income
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Soil fertility and water availability

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 3 September 2025 Shift 2 · Demographic concepts and transition

Q181. What was the major demographic feature of India at the time of independence?

  1. (a) Aging population
  2. (b) High death rate and infant mortality
  3. (c) High life expectancy
  4. (d) Low birth rate
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) High death rate and infant mortality

Q182. Read the following two statements carefully and choose the correct option:
Statement 1: India experienced a negative population growth rate between 1911 and 1921.
Statement 2: The influenza epidemic of 1918–19 caused widespread deaths during that period.

  1. (a) Only 1
  2. (b) Only 2
  3. (c) Both 1 and 2 are correct
  4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2 is correct
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2 are correct

Correct Answer: Option 3 – Both 1 and 2 are correct
Statement 1 (TRUE): The decade 1911–1921 is known as the 'Great Divide' in Indian demographic history. India's population actually declined during this period — recorded as approximately 303 million in 1911 to 251 million in 1921 (some sources show slight decline or near-stagnation). This was the only census decade in India's recorded history with negative or near-zero population growth.
Statement 2 (TRUE): The influenza pandemic of 1918–19 (Spanish Flu) was catastrophic in India — killing an estimated 12–17 million people in India alone (some estimates go up to 20 million), making India one of the worst-affected regions globally. Combined with famines, plague, and WWI, these factors explain the population decline of the 1911–1921 decade.
Both statements are historically accurate and mutually supportive.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 29 August 2025 Shift 3 · Religious and linguistic composition (census data)

Q183. Which linguistic group has the highest number of speakers in India?

  1. (a) Sino-Tibetan
  2. (b) Indo-Aryan
  3. (c) Austric
  4. (d) Dravidian
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Indo-Aryan

Correct Answer: Option 2 – Indo-Aryan
The Indo-Aryan language family is by far the largest linguistic group in India, spoken by approximately 75% of India's population. Major Indo-Aryan languages include Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Odia, Urdu, Assamese, Sindhi, Maithili, and Sanskrit. These are derived from Sanskrit and belong to the broader Indo-European language family.
Option 1 (Sino-Tibetan): Spoken by about 0.8% of India's population — languages like Bodo, Meitei (Manipuri), and various northeastern tribal languages. A small minority group.
Option 3 ( Austric ): Includes Austroasiatic (Munda languages like Santali, Mundari) and Austronesian families; spoken by tribal communities, roughly 1.5% of population.
Option 4 (Dravidian): Second largest family in India — includes Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and others. Spoken by approximately 20% of India's population, predominantly in South India.

Q184. Which one of the following states of India has the lowest female child sex ratio (0–6 years) as per Census 2011?

  1. (a) Haryana
  2. (b) Punjab
  3. (c) Uttar Pradesh
  4. (d) Jharkhand
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Haryana

Correct Answer: Option 1 – Haryana
As per Census 2011, Haryana recorded the lowest Child Sex Ratio (CSR) for the 0–6 age group in India at 834 girls per 1000 boys. This reflects the severe problem of sex-selective abortions and female infanticide in the state. The national CSR in 2011 was 919. Haryana's alarmingly low CSR led to intensified focus on the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) campaign, which was notably launched from Panipat, Haryana in January 2015.
Option 2 (Punjab): Punjab had a CSR of 846 (2011) — second lowest nationally, but still higher than Haryana's 834.
Option 3 (Uttar Pradesh): UP had a CSR of 902 (2011) — below national average but significantly higher than Haryana.
Option 4 (Jharkhand): Jharkhand had a CSR of 948 (2011) — above the national average, indicating a relatively better sex ratio at birth.

Q185. Which of the following factors DOES NOT directly influence population distribution in India?

  1. (a) Official language
  2. (b) Soil fertility
  3. (c) Topography
  4. (d) Climate
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Official language

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 22 August 2025 Shift 3 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q186. Which type of rural settlement is most common in the northeastern states and Northern Plains of India?

  1. (a) Hamleted
  2. (b) Clustered
  3. (c) Dispersed
  4. (d) Semi-clustered
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Clustered

Q187. Which of the following best explains why adult literacy varies significantly across Indian states?

  1. (a) Socio-economic and educational disparities
  2. (b) Variations in population density
  3. (c) Different climate zones
  4. (d) Unequal industrial development
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Socio-economic and educational disparities

Q188. Population density is calculated as:

  1. (a) number of persons living per unit area
  2. (b) average number of people per family
  3. (c) total number of people in a country
  4. (d) number of children born per year
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) number of persons living per unit area

Q189. According to the Census of India 2011, which is the most Urbanised state of India?

  1. (a) Punjab
  2. (b) Goa
  3. (c) Haryana
  4. (d) Kerala
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Goa

Q190. What is the percentage of urban population in India according to Census 2011?

  1. (a) 31.2%
  2. (b) 39.40%
  3. (c) 35.3%
  4. (d) 36.4%
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 31.2%

Q191. As per the Census of India data, the overall population density of India in 2011 was:

  1. (a) 382 persons/km²
  2. (b) 500 persons/km²
  3. (c) 450 persons/km²
  4. (d) 325 persons/km²
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 382 persons/km²

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 14 August 2025 Shift 1 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q192. Which physical factor most influences the formation of dispersed settlements in hilly and forested regions of India?

  1. (a) Industrial development
  2. (b) Altitude and terrain
  3. (c) Railway networks
  4. (d) Language diversity
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Altitude and terrain

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 14 August 2025 Shift 2 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q193. Which of the following is a distinctive feature of tribal settlements in India?

  1. (a) Scattered or linear village pattern in forested or hilly areas
  2. (b) Modern infrastructure and transportation
  3. (c) Planned city layouts
  4. (d) Skyscrapers
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Scattered or linear village pattern in forested or hilly areas

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 13 August 2025 Shift 2 · Demographic concepts and transition

Q194. What was the life expectancy in India in 1947?

  1. (a) 45 years
  2. (b) 38 years
  3. (c) 52 years
  4. (d) 31 years
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 31 years

Q195. Which of the following states recorded the second-highest population density in 2011 as per the Census of India?

  1. (a) Maharashtra
  2. (b) Madhya Pradesh
  3. (c) West Bengal
  4. (d) Uttar Pradesh
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) West Bengal

Q196. The distribution of population in India is:

  1. (a) more in desert areas
  2. (b) denser in hilly regions
  3. (c) uneven, with variations across regions
  4. (d) uniform across all regions
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) uneven, with variations across regions

Q197. What does the fertility rate measure?

  1. (a) Number of live births per 1000 people in the population
  2. (b) Number of women in the population between ages 15 and 49
  3. (c) Number of live births per 1000 women aged 15 to 49 in a given year
  4. (d) Number of children born per family regardless of age
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Number of live births per 1000 women aged 15 to 49 in a given year

Correct Answer: Option 3 – Number of live births per 1000 women aged 15 to 49 in a given year
The General Fertility Rate (GFR) measures the number of live births per 1,000 women of reproductive age (15–49 years) in a given year. It is a more refined measure than the Crude Birth Rate because it focuses on the population actually capable of bearing children.
Option 1 (Per 1000 people in population): This describes the Crude Birth Rate (CBR), not the fertility rate.
Option 2 (Number of women aged 15–49): This describes the Women of Reproductive Age (WRA) count, not a rate.
Option 4 (Children per family regardless of age): This is an informal description unrelated to the standard demographic measure.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 2 August 2025 Shift 3 · Workforce composition and work participation

Q198. Read the following two statements carefully and choose the correct option:
Statement 1: Northeastern states of India show high female work participation rates.
Statement 2: Tribal societies in these regions are more gender-equitable in labour division.

  1. (a) Only 1
  2. (b) Only 2
  3. (c) Both 1 and 2 are correct
  4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2 is correct
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2 are correct

Correct Answer: Option 3 – Both 1 and 2 are correct
Statement 1 is CORRECT: The northeastern states of India (Nagaland, Meghalaya, Manipur, etc.) consistently show significantly higher female work participation rates compared to the national average, as recorded in NSSO and Census data.
Statement 2 is CORRECT: The tribal societies in northeastern India have traditionally more gender-equitable division of labour compared to caste-based societies in other parts of India. Women in these tribal communities actively participate in agriculture, trade, and household decision-making, which explains Statement 1.
Both statements are independently correct, and Statement 2 also provides a socio-cultural explanation for Statement 1, making Option 3 (C) the answer.

Q199. Fill in the blank:
The Census in India is conducted every _____ years.

  1. (a) 5
  2. (b) 10
  3. (c) 15
  4. (d) 20
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 10

Correct Answer: Option 2 – 10
India conducts its national census every 10 years (decennial census) under the Census Act, 1948. The last completed census was in 2011; the 2021 census was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Option 1 (5 years): Incorrect. A 5-year interval applies to some economic surveys, not the census.
Option 3 (15 years) and Option 4 (20 years): Incorrect intervals with no legal basis.

Q200. Which State in India has the lowest population density?

  1. (a) Sikkim
  2. (b) Arunachal Pradesh
  3. (c) Nagaland
  4. (d) Manipur
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Arunachal Pradesh

Correct Answer: Option 2 – Arunachal Pradesh
As per Census 2011, Arunachal Pradesh has the lowest population density among all Indian states at approximately 17 persons per sq. km, due to its mountainous terrain and vast forested area.
Option 1 (Sikkim): Higher density (~86 persons/sq. km).
Option 3 (Nagaland): Density of ~119 persons/sq. km.
Option 4 (Manipur): Density of ~122 persons/sq. km.
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