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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 3 of 3.

📚 255 questionsSSC 166 · Railway 89
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SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 1 August 2025 Shift 2 · Sex ratio and child sex ratio

Q201. Fill in the blank:
The sex ratio in India refers to the number of females per _____ males.

  1. (a) 1200
  2. (b) 990
  3. (c) 1000
  4. (d) 1050
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) 1000

Correct Answer: Option 3 – 1000
In India, the sex ratio is officially defined as the number of females per 1000 males. This is the standard definition used in Census data.
Note: As per the 2011 Census, the actual sex ratio of India was 943 females per 1000 males. However, the question asks for the standard definition, which is 'per 1000 males.'
Option 1 (1200) and Option 4 (1050): Incorrect values not used in the standard definition.
Option 2 (990): This is close to India's actual sex ratio but not the standard unit of measurement.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 1 August 2025 Shift 3 · State and district rankings (census)

Q202. Which one of the following is the most populated district in India according to 2011 census?

  1. (a) Thane
  2. (b) North 24 Pargana
  3. (c) Bengaluru
  4. (d) Pune
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Thane

Correct Answer: Option 1 – Thane
As per the 2011 Census, Thane district in Maharashtra was the most populated district in India with a population of approximately 1.1 crore (11 million people).
Option 2 (North 24 Pargana): The second most populated district in India (West Bengal) with about 1.0 crore population.
Option 3 (Bengaluru): A major metropolitan district but not the most populated in 2011.
Option 4 (Pune): A large and fast-growing district but not the most populated in 2011.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 31 July 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q203. Which is the most populous state in India according to the Census 2011?

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

Answer: (c) Uttar Pradesh

Correct Answer: Option 3 – Uttar Pradesh
According to the Census of India 2011, Uttar Pradesh (UP) is the most populous state with a population of approximately 199.8 million (nearly 20 crore), accounting for about 16.5% of India's total population. UP has consistently been the most populous state in every census since independence. The top five most populous states (Census 2011): 1. Uttar Pradesh (~20 crore); 2. Maharashtra (~11.2 crore); 3. Bihar (~10.4 crore); 4. West Bengal (~9.1 crore); 5. Andhra Pradesh (undivided).
Option 1 (Maharashtra): 2nd most populous state (~11.2 crore) — not the most populous.
Option 2 (Bihar): 3rd most populous state (~10.4 crore) — not the most populous.
Option 4 (West Bengal): 4th most populous state (~9.1 crore) — not the most populous.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 31 July 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q204. According to the Census of 2011, which age group has the highest population percentage in India?

  1. (a) 0-14 years
  2. (b) 15-59 years
  3. (c) 60+ years
  4. (d) 80+ years
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 15-59 years

Correct Answer: Option 2 – 15-59 years
According to Census 2011, the working-age population (15–59 years) constitutes the largest share of India's population at approximately 62–63% of the total. This is the 'demographic dividend' window India is experiencing — a large working-age population relative to dependents. Age group distribution (Census 2011 approx.): 0–14 years: ~29%; 15–59 years: ~63%; 60+ years: ~8%. India's median age was about 26.7 years in 2011, indicating a relatively young but predominantly working-age population.
Option 1 (0-14 years): The child/youth population (0-14) is approximately 29% — significant but less than the 15-59 age group.
Option 3 (60+ years): The elderly population (60+) is approximately 8% — a smaller share.
Option 4 (80+ years): This is an even smaller sub-group within the elderly category.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 31 July 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q205. What characterizes Stage II of demographic transition?

  1. (a) Birth and death rates are equal
  2. (b) Death rate declines, birth rate remains high
  3. (c) Birth rate falls below death rate
  4. (d) Population decreases
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Death rate declines, birth rate remains high

Correct Answer: Option 2 – Death rate declines, birth rate remains high
The Demographic Transition Model (DTM) describes population change through stages: Stage I (Pre-industrial): Both birth and death rates are high — population is stable/slow-growing. Stage II (Early Industrial/High Growth): Death rate declines rapidly (due to improved healthcare, sanitation, food supply) but birth rate remains high — this results in a 'population explosion' (high natural increase). Most developing countries historically passed through this stage. Stage III (Late Industrial): Birth rate begins to fall; death rate continues to decline — slower population growth. Stage IV (Post-Industrial): Both birth and death rates are low — stable or slow-growing population.
Option 1 (Birth and death rates equal): This describes Stage I (both high and roughly equal) and Stage IV (both low and roughly equal).
Option 3 (Birth rate falls below death rate): This would indicate Stage V (declining population) — not Stage II.
Option 4 (Population decreases): Population decrease characterises Stage V — not Stage II, where population grows rapidly.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 30 July 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q206. Which Union Territory has the lowest population in India in reference to the Census 2011?

  1. (a) Lakshadweep
  2. (b) Andaman & Nicobar
  3. (c) Ladakh
  4. (d) Puducherry
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Lakshadweep

Correct Answer: Option 1 – Lakshadweep
As per Census 2011, Lakshadweep has the lowest population of any Union Territory (and of any state/UT) in India — with just 64,473 people. It is an archipelago of coral islands in the Arabian Sea. Note: Ladakh was not a separate UT in 2011 (it was part of Jammu & Kashmir state); it became a UT only on October 31, 2019.
Option 2 (Andaman & Nicobar): Population of 3,80,581 as per Census 2011 — significantly more than Lakshadweep.
Option 3 (Ladakh): Was part of J&K in 2011 Census; became a separate UT in 2019. Its population as a UT would be approximately 2.74 lakh — but this was not separately counted in 2011.
Option 4 (Puducherry): Population of 12,47,953 as per Census 2011 — much higher than Lakshadweep.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 30 July 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q207. According to the 2011 Census, which Indian state recorded a negative decadal population growth rate?

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

Answer: (a) Nagaland

Correct Answer: Option 1 – Nagaland
Nagaland is the only Indian state that recorded a negative decadal population growth rate in Census 2011 — a decline of -0.58% from 2001 to 2011 (population decreased from 19.88 lakh to 19.79 lakh). This was attributed to out-migration (people leaving for better opportunities), revision of inflated 2001 Census figures (it is believed that the 2001 Census over-counted Nagaland's population for political reasons related to inner-line permits and state-funded benefits), and demographic factors.
Option 2 (Kerala): Kerala had a positive but low decadal growth rate of 4.86% — the lowest among states with positive growth; not negative.
Option 3 (Goa): Goa had a decadal growth rate of 8.23% — positive.
Option 4 (Assam): Assam had a decadal growth rate of 16.93% — positive and above national average.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 29 July 2025 Shift 1 · Sex ratio and child sex ratio

Q208. Which state in India has the highest sex ratio according to the 2011 Census?

  1. (a) Tamil Nadu
  2. (b) Himachal Pradesh
  3. (c) Rajasthan
  4. (d) Kerala
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Kerala

Correct Answer: Option 4 – Kerala
According to Census 2011, Kerala has the highest sex ratio among all Indian states at 1084 females per 1000 males. This is significantly above the national average of 943. Kerala's high sex ratio is attributed to high female literacy (92%), better healthcare, low female infanticide, matrilineal traditions in some communities, women's empowerment, and better socioeconomic status of women. The Kerala Model of development emphasises human development indices including gender equality.
Option 1 (Tamil Nadu): Sex ratio of 996 as per 2011 Census — above national average but lower than Kerala.
Option 2 (Himachal Pradesh): Sex ratio of 972 as per 2011 Census.
Option 3 (Rajasthan): Sex ratio of 928 as per 2011 Census — below national average of 943.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 29 July 2025 Shift 2 · Population density

Q209. Which among the following Indian states has low population density?

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

Answer: (a) Rajasthan

Correct Answer: Option 1 – Rajasthan
Rajasthan has the lowest population density among the options given. As per Census 2011, Rajasthan's population density is 200 persons per sq km. Rajasthan is India's largest state by area (342,239 sq km) but has a relatively small population compared to its vast land, much of which is covered by the Thar Desert (Great Indian Desert) — making it sparsely populated.
Option 2 (Kerala): Population density of 860 persons per sq km (Census 2011) — one of India's most densely populated states.
Option 3 (Bihar): Population density of 1,106 persons per sq km (Census 2011) — the most densely populated state in India.
Option 4 (Punjab): Population density of 551 persons per sq km (Census 2011) — significantly higher than Rajasthan.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 29 July 2025 Shift 3 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q210. Read the following two statements carefully and choose the correct option:
Statement 1: Adolescents constitute nearly one-fifth of India's total population.
Statement 2: Adolescents are grouped in the age bracket of 10 to 19 years.

  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): According to census and UNFPA data, adolescents constitute approximately 20–21% (nearly one-fifth) of India's total population — making India home to the world's largest adolescent population (approximately 253 million adolescents).
Statement 2 (TRUE): The World Health Organization (WHO) and Government of India define adolescents as individuals in the age group of 10 to 19 years. This is the standard internationally accepted definition. The Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) — India's National Adolescent Health Programme — also covers the 10–19 age group.
Both statements are factually correct and consistent with official government and WHO definitions.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 28 July 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q211. What is the main reason for the high population growth in India?

  1. (a) High birth rate
  2. (b) Low literacy rate
  3. (c) High death rate
  4. (d) High migration
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) High birth rate

Correct Answer: Option 1 – High birth rate
The primary driver of India's historically high population growth has been a high birth rate (Total Fertility Rate — TFR). While death rates have fallen significantly due to improved healthcare, the birth rate remained relatively high for decades, creating a wide demographic gap. India's TFR has been declining (now ~2.0, near replacement level) but the large population base continues to add numbers. High birth rate is the main cause of India's population explosion.
Option 2 (Low literacy rate): Low literacy correlates with high birth rates but is a contributing factor, not the main direct cause of population growth.
Option 3 (High death rate): A high death rate would actually reduce population growth; India's success in reducing death rates (not increasing them) contributed to population growth.
Option 4 (High migration): India experiences significant emigration (outward migration); migration is not a net contributor to domestic population growth.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 28 July 2025 Shift 1 · Urbanisation and migration

Q212. What determines the proportion of urban population to the total population?

  1. (a) Urbanization rate
  2. (b) Population density
  3. (c) Migration rate
  4. (d) Fertility rate
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Urbanization rate

Correct Answer: Option 1 – Urbanization rate
The urbanization rate (or level of urbanization) is defined as the proportion of the total population living in urban areas to the total population. It is expressed as a percentage: (Urban Population / Total Population) × 100. According to India's 2011 Census, the urbanization rate was 31.16%. It is a direct demographic measure of the urban-rural population distribution.
Option 2 (Population density): Population density is persons per unit area (per sq km); it does not specifically measure the urban-to-total-population ratio.
Option 3 (Migration rate): Migration rate measures the movement of people; it contributes to urbanization but does not define the proportion itself.
Option 4 (Fertility rate): Total Fertility Rate (TFR) measures births per woman; relevant to population growth but not the urban proportion.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 28 July 2025 Shift 3 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q213. Read the following two statements carefully and choose the correct option:
Statement 1: Death rates and birth rates are always reported as absolute numbers.
Statement 2: These rates are based on the total number of events, not relative to population size.

  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: (d) Neither 1 nor 2 is correct

Correct Answer: Option 4 – Neither 1 nor 2 is correct
Statement 1 (FALSE): Death rates and birth rates are NOT reported as absolute numbers. They are reported as RATES — expressed per 1,000 of the population per year. For example, India's Crude Birth Rate (CBR) is ~18 per 1,000 population and Crude Death Rate (CDR) is ~6 per 1,000 population. Absolute numbers would simply be the count of births/deaths, which is different from the rate.
Statement 2 (FALSE): Demographic rates ARE relative to population size — that is precisely what makes them 'rates' rather than absolute counts. Birth rate = (Total live births in a year / Mid-year population) × 1,000. They are definitionally based on population size.
Both statements are factually incorrect, making Option 4 (Neither 1 nor 2) the correct answer.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 26 July 2025 Shift 1 · Literacy rate

Q214. Name the state having the highest literacy rate according to the 2011 Census.

  1. (a) Kerala
  2. (b) Tamil Nadu
  3. (c) Maharashtra
  4. (d) Gujarat
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Kerala

Correct Answer: Option 1 – Kerala
According to the 2011 Census of India, Kerala has the highest literacy rate among all Indian states at 94.0% (Male: 96.1%, Female: 92.1%). Kerala has consistently maintained the highest literacy rate in India due to its strong emphasis on education, public health, and social development — a model known as the 'Kerala Model of Development.'
Option 2 (Tamil Nadu): Tamil Nadu has a literacy rate of about 80.3% (2011 Census); higher than national average but below Kerala.
Option 3 (Maharashtra): Maharashtra's literacy rate is about 82.9% (2011 Census); higher than national average but below Kerala.
Option 4 (Gujarat): Gujarat's literacy rate is about 79.3% (2011 Census); below Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 26 July 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q215. What is the term for the study of population characteristics such as age, gender, and income?

  1. (a) Sociology
  2. (b) Demographics
  3. (c) Anthropology
  4. (d) Geography
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Demographics

Correct Answer: Option 2 – Demographics
Demographics (or Demography) is the scientific study of human population characteristics including size, growth, density, distribution, and vital statistics (birth rates, death rates, migration), as well as characteristics such as age structure, gender composition, income distribution, ethnicity, and educational attainment. It is used in economics, public policy, marketing, and urban planning.
Option 1 (Sociology): The study of society, social behavior, social structures, and social institutions; broader than just population statistics.
Option 3 (Anthropology): The study of human societies, cultures, and their development across time and place; more holistic than the statistical study of population characteristics.
Option 4 (Geography): The study of Earth's physical features, environments, and human-environment interactions; population geography is a subfield but geography is broader.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 26 July 2025 Shift 2 · Population density

Q216. Which one of the following defines spatial distribution of population?

  1. (a) The movement of people from rural to urban areas
  2. (b) The pattern of how people are spread across a given area
  3. (c) The ratio of males to females in a population
  4. (d) The fertility rate of a population
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) The pattern of how people are spread across a given area

Correct Answer: Option 2 – The pattern of how people are spread across a given area
Spatial distribution of population refers to the pattern of how human populations are spread or distributed across a geographical area (country, region, or the world). It shows where people live — densely populated areas (river valleys, coastal plains, deltas) versus sparsely populated areas (deserts, high mountains, dense forests). Population density (persons per sq km) is the key metric used to measure spatial distribution.
Option 1 (Rural to urban movement): This describes rural-urban migration, a component of population mobility/migration; not spatial distribution.
Option 3 (Ratio of males to females): This is the Sex Ratio (males per 1000 females or vice versa); a demographic measure, not spatial distribution.
Option 4 (Fertility rate): The average number of children born per woman; a vital rate/demographic measure, not spatial distribution.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 26 July 2025 Shift 3 · Urbanisation and migration

Q217. Read the following two statements carefully and choose the correct option:
Statement 1: Rural-to-urban migration is a major contributor to urban growth in India.
Statement 2: Better job opportunities and education facilities in cities attract migrants.

  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): Rural-to-urban migration is indeed a major contributor to India's urban population growth. The 2011 Census and NSSO surveys confirm that migration (push-pull factors) accounts for a significant share of urban growth alongside natural increase.
Statement 2 (TRUE): Better employment opportunities (higher wages, diverse job markets), superior education (universities, colleges), healthcare, and improved living standards are classic 'pull factors' attracting rural migrants to cities — a foundational principle in migration theory (Todaro Model, Lewis dual-sector model).
Both statements are well-established demographic and economic facts, making Option 3 the correct answer.
Option 4 (Neither): Incorrect — both statements are factually accurate and well-documented.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 25 July 2025 Shift 1 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q218. Name the Indian state having the highest population according to the 2011 Census.

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

Answer: (b) Uttar Pradesh

Correct Answer: Option 2 – Uttar Pradesh
As per the 2011 Census of India, Uttar Pradesh (UP) is the most populous state with a population of approximately 199.8 million (about 20 crore), making it the most populous state in India and the most populous subnational unit in the world at that time. UP accounts for about 16.5% of India's total population.
Option 1 (Maharashtra): 2nd most populous state (about 112 million in 2011).
Option 3 (Bihar): 3rd most populous state (about 104 million in 2011).
Option 4 (West Bengal): 4th most populous state (about 91 million in 2011).
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 25 July 2025 Shift 2 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q219. Which statement best describes Stage III of demographic transition?

  1. (a) Both birth and death rates decline
  2. (b) High infant mortality
  3. (c) Rapidly rising death rate
  4. (d) Low but fluctuating birth rate
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Both birth and death rates decline

Correct Answer: Option 1 – Both birth and death rates decline
The Demographic Transition Model (DTM) describes population changes through stages: Stage I — both birth and death rates are high; Stage II — death rate falls sharply (medical advances) while birth rate remains high → rapid population growth; Stage III — both birth and death rates begin to decline as countries develop economically, urbanize, and improve education/family planning; Stage IV — both rates are low, stabilizing population. Stage III is thus characterized by declining birth AND death rates.
Option 2 (High infant mortality): Characteristic of Stage I or early Stage II; infant mortality is declining by Stage III.
Option 3 (Rapidly rising death rate): Death rates fall (not rise) in Stage II onward; rapidly rising death rate does not describe Stage III.
Option 4 (Low but fluctuating birth rate): More characteristic of Stage IV, where both rates are low and stable.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 25 July 2025 Shift 3 · Urbanisation and migration

Q220. Read the following two statements carefully and choose the correct option:
Statement 1: Rural-to-urban migration is a major contributor to urban growth in India.
Statement 2: Better job opportunities and education facilities in cities attract migrants.

  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 TRUE: Rural-to-urban migration is indeed a major contributor to urban growth in India. According to the 2011 Census and NSSO surveys, migration accounts for a significant portion of urban population growth, alongside natural increase. Urban areas grew faster in states with higher migration rates.
Statement 2 is TRUE: Better employment opportunities (higher wages, diverse job markets), superior education facilities (universities, schools), healthcare access, and higher living standards are well-documented 'pull factors' that attract rural migrants to cities. This is a foundational principle of migration theory (Lewis Model, Todaro Model).
Since both statements are factually correct, Option 3 (Both 1 and 2 are correct) is the answer.
Option 1 (Only 1): Both statements are correct, not just Statement 1.
Option 2 (Only 2): Both statements are correct, not just Statement 2.
Option 4 (Neither): Both statements are well-established facts.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 24 July 2025 Shift 1 · Urbanisation and migration

Q221. What is the term used to refer to the process of people leaving their home country to settle in another?

  1. (a) Immigration
  2. (b) Emigration
  3. (c) Urbanization
  4. (d) Industrialization
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Emigration

Correct Answer: Option 2 – Emigration
Emigration refers to the act of leaving one's native country or region to settle permanently in another country. The person doing so is called an emigrant. From the perspective of the destination country, the same person is called an immigrant, and the process is called immigration.
Option 1 (Immigration): Refers to entering and settling in a foreign country — the opposite perspective (from the receiving country's view).
Option 3 (Urbanization): The process of population shift from rural to urban areas within a country; not about international migration.
Option 4 (Industrialization): The process of economic and social transformation through industrial development; unrelated to migration.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 24 July 2025 Shift 1 · Urbanisation and migration

Q222. Which Indian city had the highest population as per the 2011 Census?

  1. (a) Delhi
  2. (b) Mumbai
  3. (c) Kolkata
  4. (d) Bengaluru
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Mumbai

Correct Answer: Option 2 – Mumbai
As per the 2011 Census of India, Mumbai (Greater Mumbai) was the most populous city with a population of approximately 12.4 million, making it India's most populous city (city/town classification). Delhi had 11 million as a city. However, the Delhi Urban Agglomeration was larger overall. Note: In terms of urban agglomeration, Delhi UA (16.3M) exceeded Mumbai UA (12.4M) in 2011.
Option 1 (Delhi): Delhi UA was larger overall, but as per city classification in 2011 Census, Mumbai city was ranked first.
Option 3 (Kolkata): Third most populous city/UA in India per 2011 Census.
Option 4 (Bengaluru): Ranked lower in 2011 Census population rankings.
SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 24 July 2025 Shift 2 · Population density

Q223. Which region in India has the highest population density due to fertile soil and abundant water resources?

  1. (a) Thar Desert
  2. (b) Indo-Gangetic Plain
  3. (c) Western Ghats
  4. (d) Himalayan Region
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Indo-Gangetic Plain

Correct Answer: Option 2 – Indo-Gangetic Plain
The Indo-Gangetic Plain (covering parts of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal) has the highest population density in India, sustained by its extremely fertile alluvial soil, abundant water from the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra river systems, and flat terrain ideal for agriculture. It supports hundreds of millions of people and is one of the most densely populated agricultural regions in the world.
Option 1 (Thar Desert): The Thar Desert in Rajasthan is arid with scarce water; among the least densely populated regions.
Option 3 (Western Ghats): A biodiversity hotspot with moderate population; not the highest density region.
Option 4 (Himalayan Region): Mountainous terrain with harsh climate limits population density.
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 24 June 2025 Shift 1 · Population density

Q224. Which region in India is the least populated due to physical barriers and limited accessibility?

  1. (a) Coastal Andhra Pradesh
  2. (b) Ganga Basin
  3. (c) Northern Himalayas (Ladakh region)
  4. (d) Eastern Rajasthan
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Northern Himalayas (Ladakh region)

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 24 June 2025 Shift 3 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q225. Which factor primarily contributed to the development of nucleated settlements in the Bundelkhand region of central India?

  1. (a) Fertile soil and irrigation facilities
  2. (b) Availability of mineral resources
  3. (c) Proximity to trade routes
  4. (d) Security concerns and invasions
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Security concerns and invasions

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 24 June 2025 Shift 3 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q226. Which of the following is an example of a Tier I city in India?

  1. (a) Amritsar
  2. (b) Bhopal
  3. (c) Jaipur
  4. (d) Kolkata
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Kolkata

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 23 June 2025 Shift 3 · Literacy rate

Q227. What was the literacy rate in India according to the 2011 Census?

  1. (a) 72.98%
  2. (b) 75.12%
  3. (c) 76.23%
  4. (d) 74.04%
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 74.04%

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 23 June 2025 Shift 3 · Population density

Q228. Which of the following states has a sparse population mainly due to hilly terrain?

  1. (a) Odisha
  2. (b) Gujarat
  3. (c) Tamil Nadu
  4. (d) Arunachal Pradesh
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Arunachal Pradesh

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 23 June 2025 Shift 1 · Population density

Q229. Which of the following river basins supports the highest population concentration in India?

  1. (a) Godavari Basin
  2. (b) Ganga Basin
  3. (c) Narmada Basin
  4. (d) Brahmaputra Basin
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Ganga Basin

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 23 June 2025 Shift 1 · SC and ST population

Q230. According to 2011 census of India, which of the following states/union territories was observed as absence of tribal population?

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

Answer: (a) Punjab

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 21 June 2025 Shift 3 · Census 2011 - population and growth

Q231. According to the Census of India, what was the approximate decadal growth rate of India’s population during 2001-2011?

  1. (a) 21.3%
  2. (b) 14.9%
  3. (c) 25.6%
  4. (d) 17.6%
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 17.6%

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 21 June 2025 Shift 3 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q232. Which of the following physical factors influences the compactness of rural settlements in dry regions like Rajasthan?

  1. (a) Availability of water
  2. (b) Altitude
  3. (c) Soil fertility
  4. (d) Groundwater salinity
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Availability of water

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 20 June 2025 Shift 2 · Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC)

Q233. What percentage of households were classified as the poorest of the poor, as per SECC-2011?

  1. (a) 1%
  2. (b) 0.79%
  3. (c) 0.59%
  4. (d) 0.89%
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 0.89%

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 20 June 2025 Shift 1 · Urbanisation and migration

Q234. Which of the following urban agglomerations has the highest population in India as per Census 2011?

  1. (a) Mumbai
  2. (b) Delhi
  3. (c) Kolkata
  4. (d) Bengaluru
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Mumbai

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 19 June 2025 Shift 2 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q235. Kanpur, a city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is an example of which type of town?

  1. (a) Industrial Town
  2. (b) Recreational Town
  3. (c) Transfer and Distribution Town
  4. (d) Administrative Town
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Industrial Town

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 18 June 2025 Shift 2 · Urbanisation and migration

Q236. What percentage of the urban population in India lives in slum conditions as per the Census 2011?

  1. (a) 14.7%
  2. (b) 17.4%
  3. (c) 18.2%
  4. (d) 12.8%
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 17.4%

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 18 June 2025 Shift 1 · Urbanisation and migration

Q237. In the Indian context, population growth in Class I cities is the most influenced by _____.

  1. (a) government employment
  2. (b) religious factors
  3. (c) natural increase
  4. (d) migration from rural areas
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) migration from rural areas

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 16 June 2025 Shift 1 · SC and ST population

Q238. Which of the following states recorded the highest Schedule Tribes (ST) sex ratio in 2011, as per the Census of India data?

  1. (a) Mizoram
  2. (b) Arunachal Pradesh
  3. (c) Tamil Nadu
  4. (d) Goa
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Goa

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 16 June 2025 Shift 1 · Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC)

Q239. How many rural households were graded based on deprivation criteria, as per Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) that was concluded by the Ministry of Rural Development in March, 2016?

  1. (a) 6.72 crore
  2. (b) 8.72 crore
  3. (c) 9.72 crore
  4. (d) 7.72 crore
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 8.72 crore

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 16 June 2025 Shift 1 · Urbanisation and migration

Q240. Which Indian state/Union territory had the highest urbanised population, as per the Census 2011?

  1. (a) Delhi
  2. (b) Goa
  3. (c) Maharashtra
  4. (d) Tamil Nadu
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Delhi

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

Q241. According to the office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, a city with a population exceeding 10 million is classified as which type of urban settlement?

  1. (a) Metro town
  2. (b) Metropolitan City
  3. (c) Mega City
  4. (d) Town
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Mega City

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 13 June 2025 Shift 1 · Population density

Q242. _____ recorded the highest population density in 2011, as per the 2011 Census of India.

  1. (a) North East Delhi
  2. (b) Mumbai Sub-Urban
  3. (c) Chennai
  4. (d) Hyderabad
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) North East Delhi

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 13 June 2025 Shift 3 · Urbanisation and migration

Q243. In everyday life, higher population density in cities like Delhi leads to _____.

  1. (a) decrease in school enrolments
  2. (b) increased per capita income
  3. (c) stress on the environment
  4. (d) reduced land prices
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) stress on the environment

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 13 June 2025 Shift 2 · Urbanisation and migration

Q244. Which of the following urban areas is identified as Million Plus Urban Agglomerations Cities as per Census of India 2001?

  1. (a) Chandigarh
  2. (b) Kannauj
  3. (c) Dehradun
  4. (d) Lucknow
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Lucknow

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 13 June 2025 Shift 3 · Current population estimates and projections

Q245. According to the Economic Survey 2023-24, what percentage of India's population is expected to reside in urban areas by 2030?

  1. (a) 40%
  2. (b) 50%
  3. (c) 45%
  4. (d) 35%
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 40%

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 12 June 2025 Shift 3 · Demographic concepts and transition

Q246. During which phase and year was a steady population growth rate observed in India?

  1. (a) Phase IV: 1981-2011
  2. (b) Phase II: 1921-1951
  3. (c) Phase III: 1951-1981
  4. (d) Phase I: 1891-1921
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Phase II: 1921-1951

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 12 June 2025 Shift 2 · Current population estimates and projections

Q247. According to the Economic Survey 2023-24, what percentage of India's population is expected to reside in urban areas by 2030?

  1. (a) 50%
  2. (b) 40%
  3. (c) 45%
  4. (d) 35%
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 40%

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 11 June 2025 Shift 2 · Sex ratio and child sex ratio

Q248. What was the sex ratio in India as per the 2011 Census data?

  1. (a) 943 females per 1000 males
  2. (b) 950 females per 1000 males
  3. (c) 948 females per 1000 males
  4. (d) 940 females per 1000 males
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 943 females per 1000 males

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 11 June 2025 Shift 2 · Demographic concepts and transition

Q249. What was the life expectancy at birth in India as per the 2021 World Health Organization data?

  1. (a) 67.3 years
  2. (b) 72.1 years
  3. (c) 65.3 years
  4. (d) 70.8 years
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 67.3 years

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 10 June 2025 Shift 3 · Urbanisation and migration

Q250. What percentage of India's population lives in urban areas according to the 2011 Census?

  1. (a) 32.30%
  2. (b) 34.78%
  3. (c) 33.50%
  4. (d) 31.16%
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 31.16%

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 10 June 2025 Shift 2 · Demographic concepts and transition

Q251. In the context of India’s population distribution, the term physiological density refers to population per _____.

  1. (a) household
  2. (b) doctor
  3. (c) unit of arable land
  4. (d) hospital bed
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) unit of arable land

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 9 June 2025 Shift 3 · Current population estimates and projections

Q252. What is the projected population of India by 2036, according to the National Commission on Population?

  1. (a) 1.52 billion
  2. (b) 1.38 billion
  3. (c) 1.32 billion
  4. (d) 1.45 billion
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 1.52 billion

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 6 June 2025 Shift 2 · Human settlements - rural and urban types

Q253. In India, a city with a population of less than 10,000 and more than 5000 is classified as which type of class town?

  1. (a) Class VI
  2. (b) Class V
  3. (c) Class II
  4. (d) Class I
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Class V

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 5 June 2025 Shift 3 · Demographic concepts and transition

Q254. Which period in India's demographic history is marked by a sharp decline in mortality and persistently high fertility rates?

  1. (a) Phase IV (1981–2001)
  2. (b) Phase II (1921–1951)
  3. (c) Phase I (1901–1921)
  4. (d) Phase III (1951–1981)
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Phase III (1951–1981)

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 5 June 2025 Shift 2 · Demographic concepts and transition

Q255. What was the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) in India according to the Sample Registration System (SRS), 2019?

  1. (a) 30 per 1000 live births
  2. (b) 34 per 1000 live births
  3. (c) 28 per 1000 live births
  4. (d) 32 per 1000 live births
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 30 per 1000 live births

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