What was India’s urban population percentage in Census 2011?
A24%
B31%
C36%
D41%
Answer:
B. 31%
Read Explanation:
- Census 2011 Urbanization Statistics: According to the 2011 Census of India, the urban population stood at 31.16% of the total population, while the rural population accounted for 68.84%.
- Comparison with Previous Census: This represented an increase from the 27.81% urban population recorded in the 2001 Census, indicating a steady trend of migration and urban growth across the country.
- State-wise Trends (High Urbanization):
- Goa: Recorded the highest level of urbanization in India, with 62.17% of its population living in urban areas.
- Mizoram: Followed closely with 51.51% urban population.
- Tamil Nadu: Holds the distinction of being the most urbanized large state in India, with 48.45% of its population residing in urban centers.
- State-wise Trends (Low Urbanization):
- Himachal Pradesh: Remained the least urbanized state, with only 10.03% of the population living in urban areas.
- Bihar: Reported an urban population of approximately 11.30%.
- Definition of Urban Area (Census 2011): For the purpose of the 2011 Census, an area was classified as urban if it met the following criteria:
- A minimum population of 5,000.
- At least 75% of the male main working population engaged in non-agricultural pursuits.
- A population density of at least 400 persons per square kilometer.
- All statutory towns (municipalities, corporations, cantonment boards) are automatically treated as urban.
- Significance: Understanding these figures is crucial for Local Self Governance exams as they define the jurisdiction and classification of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) like Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils, and Nagar Panchayats under the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act.