Population in India

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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).
  3. Social and Economic Factors:
    • Jobs & Industries: Cities like Mumbai attract people for work.
    • Infrastructure: Good transport, healthcare, and education encourage settlement.
  4. Historical and Cultural Factors:
    • Cultural Centers: Religious and historical sites attract people (e.g., Varanasi).
    • Traditional Settlements: Old communities maintain high population densities.
  5. 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.
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