What is Population ?
- Population refers to the total number of inhabitants living in a specific area at a particular time.
Factors Influencing the Distribution of Population in India
- Physical Features:
- Mountains & Hills: Low population due to tough conditions (e.g., Himalayas).
- Plains & River Valleys: Densely populated due to fertile land (e.g., Gangetic plains).
- Coastal Areas: Attract people for fishing, trade, and tourism.
- Climate
- Moderate Climate: Supports high population due to favorable conditions.
- Extreme Climate: Deserts and very wet/dry areas have lower populations (e.g., Thar Desert).
- Social and Economic Factors:
- Jobs & Industries: Cities like Mumbai attract people for work.
- Infrastructure: Good transport, healthcare, and education encourage settlement.
- Historical and Cultural Factors:
- Cultural Centers: Religious and historical sites attract people (e.g., Varanasi).
- Traditional Settlements: Old communities maintain high population densities.
- Demographic Factors:
- Migration: People move for jobs (pull factors) or away from poverty (push factors).
- Birth Rates: High fertility in states like Bihar and UP increases population.
Factors Affecting Population Growth in India
- Birth Rate: High fertility rates due to early marriage, limited access to family planning, and cultural preferences lead to increased population.
- Death Rate: Improvements in healthcare, sanitation, and nutrition have lowered death rates, contributing to population growth.
- Migration: Rural-to-urban migration increases urban populations as people seek employment and better living conditions (e.g., Mumbai, Delhi).
- Socio-economic Factors: Poverty and economic needs can result in larger family sizes. Education, particularly for women, tends to reduce birth rates and slows population growth.