CBSE Class 9 Geography Important Questions Chapter 6 Population

1. State the lowest population state.

Ans:

The state with the lowest population in India is Sikkim.

2. What does a "Census" mean?

Ans:

A Census is an official, systematic process of collecting, recording, and analysing information about the population of a country or region. It typically includes data on the number of people, their demographic characteristics (such as age, sex, and occupation), and other relevant social and economic information. In many countries, including India, a census is conducted every ten years to provide detailed insights into the population and help guide government planning and policy-making.

3. What might be the cause of India's unequal population distribution?

Ans:

• Climate: Regions with favourable climates, such as moderate temperatures and adequate rainfall, tend to have higher population densities. In contrast, extreme climates, such as the arid conditions of Rajasthan or the cold of the Himalayan regions, have lower population densities.

• Terrain and Soil Fertility: Fertile plains, such as the Indo-Gangetic Plain, support dense populations due to their suitability for agriculture. Mountainous and hilly terrains, such as those found in the Himalayas and the Western Ghats, are less populated due to difficult living and farming conditions.

• Availability of Water: Areas with abundant water sources, such as rivers and lakes, support larger populations due to the availability of water for drinking, agriculture, and industry. Arid regions with scarce water resources have sparse populations.

• Economic Opportunities: Urban areas and regions with industrial and commercial activities attract larger populations due to better employment opportunities. Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru have high population densities due to their economic prospects.

• Infrastructure and Services: Regions with well-developed infrastructure, including transportation, healthcare, and education facilities, tend to have higher populations as they offer a better quality of life.

• Historical and Cultural Factors: Some areas have been historically and culturally significant, leading to higher populations. For example, the densely populated region of the Ganges Valley has been a cultural and economic centre for centuries.

4. Compose a brief comment on "The Size and Distribution of India's Population."

Ans:

• India is the second most populous country in the world, with over 1.3 billion people, but this population is unevenly distributed due to various factors. High population densities are found in fertile regions like the Indo-Gangetic Plain, encompassing states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, which benefit from abundant water and fertile land. 

• Moderate densities are seen in states like Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, which have a mix of urban and rural areas with diverse economic activities. Low population densities are characteristic of arid regions like Rajasthan and the mountainous areas of the Himalayas.

• Also, around 65% of the population lives in rural areas, though urban areas like Mumbai and Delhi are rapidly growing due to better economic opportunities. This uneven distribution impacts resource allocation, infrastructure development, and policy implementation across the country.

5. Kerala has 1084 women for every 1000 men, Puducherry has 1038 women for every 1000 men, Delhi has just 866 women for every 1000 men, and Haryana has just 877 women for every 1000 men. What might be the causes of these differences?

Ans:

• Cultural Practices: Regions with a preference for male children often have lower sex ratios. In states like Haryana and Delhi, cultural biases and societal norms favouring boys over girls lead to practices like sex-selective abortions and neglect of girl children, resulting in a lower number of females.

• Education and Awareness: Higher literacy rates and better education in states like Kerala and Puducherry contribute to a more balanced sex ratio. Education promotes gender equality and discourages discriminatory practices against girl children.

• Healthcare and Access to Services: Better access to healthcare services in states like Kerala ensures lower infant mortality rates for females and better maternal care, contributing to a higher sex ratio. In contrast, poorer healthcare infrastructure in states like Haryana can result in higher female infant mortality.

• Economic Factors: Economic development and employment opportunities can influence the sex ratio. In urbanised regions like Delhi, migration patterns often show a higher influx of male workers seeking employment, skewing the sex ratio.

• Government Policies and Social Initiatives: States with effective implementation of policies and initiatives aimed at improving the status of women, such as Kerala, see better sex ratios. Programs promoting women's health, education, and welfare play a significant role in balancing the sex ratio.

• Social Attitudes and Gender Equality: Societies that value and promote gender equality tend to have more balanced sex ratios. Kerala, known for its progressive social attitudes towards women, reflects this in its higher sex ratio.

6. Include a comment on the composition of age.

Ans:

Age composition refers to the distribution of a population across different age groups. It is a critical demographic characteristic that influences various social, economic, and policy-related aspects of a region or country. The age composition of a population is typically categorised into three broad groups:

1. Children (0-14 years): This group includes infants, children, and early teenagers. A high proportion of children in the population indicates a young population with potential for future growth but also signifies a need for substantial investment in education, healthcare, and childcare services.

2. Working-Age Population (15-64 years): This group comprises the labour force that contributes to the economic activities of a country. A large working-age population can be an economic asset, providing a significant labour pool for industries, services, and agriculture. This demographic supports the younger and older age groups through their economic contributions.

3. Elderly (65 years and above): This group includes senior citizens who are typically retired from active employment. A higher proportion of elderly people in the population indicates an ageing population, which can lead to increased demand for healthcare, pension systems, and social services.

7. What are India's three zones of population density?

Ans:

High Population Density Zones:

• Description: These areas have a population density of more than 400 people per square kilometre.

• Examples: States and regions in this zone include the Indo-Gangetic Plain (Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal), and major metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. These regions are characterised by fertile land, favourable climate, and significant urbanisation, leading to dense populations.

Moderate Population Density Zones:

• Description: These areas have a population density between 200 and 400 people per square kilometre.

• Examples: States like Maharashtra (excluding Mumbai), Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat fall into this category. These regions have a mix of urban and rural areas with moderate agricultural and industrial activities.

Low Population Density Zones:

• Description: These areas have a population density of fewer than 200 people per square kilometre.

• Examples: States and regions in this zone include Rajasthan, parts of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, and the northeastern states like Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram. These regions are characterised by harsh climatic conditions, difficult terrain, and limited economic activities, resulting in sparse populations.

8. What distinguishes the population at average density from that of the whole population?

Ans:

1. Total Population:

• Total population refers to the complete number of people living in a specific area, such as a country, state, city, or region, at a given point in time.

• Example: As of a certain year, India might have a total population of over 1.3 billion people.

• Usage: This measure is used to understand the overall size of the population in an area, which can help in planning resources, infrastructure, and services.

2. Average Density Population (or Population Density):

• Average density population, commonly referred to as population density, is the number of people living per unit area, typically expressed as people per square kilometre or square mile.

• Example: If a state has a population of 10 million people and an area of 50,000 square kilometres, its population density would be 200 people per square kilometre.

• Usage: This measure is used to understand how crowded or spread out a population is in a given area, which can help in planning urban development, transportation, and public services.

Differences:

• Measurement:

• Total Population: Absolute number of people.

• Average Density Population: Number of people per unit area.

9. "India's Population Distribution Is Unequal." Provide evidence to support this claim.

Ans:

The distribution of population in India is indeed uneven, with significant variations across different regions due to factors like climate, geography, economic opportunities, and historical developments. Here are some examples to justify this statement:

1. High Population Density:

• Indo-Gangetic Plain: This region, including states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal, has some of the highest population densities in the country. The fertile soil, ample water supply from rivers like the Ganges, and favourable climate support intensive agriculture and dense human settlements.

• Urban Centers: Major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata have extremely high population densities due to urbanisation, economic opportunities, and better infrastructure. Mumbai, for example, has a population density of over 20,000 people per square kilometre in some areas.

2. Moderate Population Density:

• Maharashtra (excluding Mumbai): Regions in Maharashtra such as Pune and Nagpur have moderate population densities. These areas have a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with balanced economic activities in agriculture, industry, and services.

• Southern States: States like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka also have moderate population densities. They are industrial and IT hubs, providing employment and better living standards, attracting people to urban areas while maintaining a considerable rural population engaged in agriculture.

3. Low Population Density:

• Rajasthan: Much of Rajasthan, especially the Thar Desert, has low population density due to its arid climate and challenging living conditions. The scarcity of water and extreme temperatures limit the ability to support a large population.

• Himalayan Region: States like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the northeastern states (e.g., Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim) have low population densities. The rugged terrain, harsh weather conditions, and limited economic activities contribute to the sparse population in these areas.

10. As a result of long life expectancies, a population has a high number of children. Is it true or false?

Ans:

False. A large proportion of children in a population is typically a result of high birth rates rather than high life expectancies. High life expectancy usually leads to a larger proportion of older individuals in the population, as more people live to older ages. In contrast, high birth rates result in a larger proportion of young children. Therefore, a population with a significant number of children usually reflects high fertility rates, not necessarily high life expectancy.

11. Why has India's population growth rate decreased since 1981?

Ans:

• Economic Development: Economic growth and urbanisation have shifted the economic benefits of having large families. In urban settings, the cost of raising children is higher, and families often prefer to have fewer children to provide better opportunities and quality of life.

• Health Improvements: Advances in healthcare have reduced infant and child mortality rates, leading to fewer "replacement" births. When parents are confident that their children will survive, they tend to have fewer children.

• Government Policies: Government initiatives and policies promoting small family norms have played an important role. Campaigns like the National Population Policy and various state-level family planning programs have encouraged families to limit the number of children.

• Changing Social Norms: There has been a gradual shift in societal attitudes towards smaller family sizes. As more families adopt the trend of having fewer children, it influences others in the community to do the same.

12. What constitutes the bulk of the population growth?

Ans:

Birth Rate:

• The number of live births per 1,000 people in a given year.

• Impact: A higher birth rate increases the population size, while a lower birth rate reduces it.

Death Rate:

• The number of deaths per 1,000 people in a given year.

• Impact: A higher death rate decreases the population size, while a lower death rate increases it.

Migration:

• The movement of people from one place to another can be internal (within a country) or international (between countries).

• Impact:

• Immigration: The arrival of people into an area increases its population.

• Emigration: The departure of people from an area decreases its population.

13. Describe the Adolescent Population in Detail.

Ans:

• The adolescent population, comprising individuals aged 10 to 19 years, is an important demographic group experiencing significant physical, emotional, and cognitive changes. 

• This stage of development requires targeted health services, including nutrition, mental health support, and reproductive health education, to address unique needs and prevent issues like malnutrition, mental health disorders, and sexually transmitted infections. 

• Education plays a vital role in shaping their future, necessitating access to quality schooling and skill development programs. Adolescents also face vulnerabilities such as abuse, exploitation, and social risks, highlighting the importance of protective legal frameworks and supportive environments. 

• Government initiatives and programs, such as India's Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK), aim to address these needs, ensuring adolescents are equipped to contribute positively to society and the economy.

14. Describe the birth rate, mortality rate, and age distribution.

Ans:

Age Structure:

• Age structure refers to the distribution of a population across different age groups. It typically categorises the population into groups such as children (0-14 years), working-age adults (15-64 years), and elderly (65 years and above). Understanding the age structure helps in analysing the demographic trends and planning for various social and economic needs, such as education, healthcare, and employment.

Death Rate:

• The death rate, also known as the mortality rate, is the number of deaths per 1,000 individuals in a population per year. It is an important demographic indicator that helps in understanding the overall health and life expectancy of a population. Factors influencing the death rate include healthcare quality, living conditions, nutrition, and the prevalence of diseases.

Birth Rate:

• The birth rate, also known as the natality rate, is the number of live births per 1,000 individuals in a population per year. It is an important measure for understanding population growth and demographic changes. Factors affecting the birth rate include cultural norms, economic conditions, healthcare access, and family planning practices.

15. Summarise the advancements achieved in India's health care system.

Ans:

• India has made significant improvements in the health status of its people over recent decades. These advancements are reflected in increased life expectancy, reduced infant and maternal mortality rates, and better management of infectious diseases.

• Expanded healthcare infrastructure, including more hospitals and clinics, has improved access to medical services, especially in rural areas. Vaccination programs have effectively controlled diseases like polio and measles, while initiatives like the National Health Mission have focused on enhancing primary healthcare and maternal and child health services.

• Public health campaigns promoting sanitation, hygiene, and nutrition have contributed to overall better health outcomes. These combined efforts have significantly uplifted the health status of India's population, making healthcare more accessible and effective.

16. How does migration influence changes in the population?

Ans:

Migration is an important determinant of population change because it directly affects the size, composition, and distribution of populations within regions. Here’s how migration influences population dynamics:

1. Population Size:

• Immigration: When people move into a region from elsewhere, it increases the population size of the destination area. For instance, cities experiencing high immigration rates may see rapid population growth.

• Emigration: When people leave a region to settle elsewhere, it decreases the population size of the origin area. Rural areas often experience population decline due to outmigration to urban centres.

2. Population Composition:

• Age and Gender Structure: Migration can alter the age and gender composition of a population. For example, young adults often migrate for employment opportunities, leading to a younger demographic in urban areas and an older demographic in the areas they leave.

• Cultural and Ethnic Diversity: Migration introduces new cultural and ethnic groups to the destination area, increasing diversity. This can lead to a blending of cultures and new social dynamics.

3. Population Distribution:

• Urbanisation: Migration from rural to urban areas contributes to urbanisation, concentrating population growth in cities. This affects infrastructure, housing, and service demand in urban centres.

• Regional Development: Migration patterns can influence regional development. Areas with high in-migration may experience economic growth and development, while areas with high out-migration may face challenges such as labour shortages and economic stagnation.

4. Economic Impact:

• Labour Markets: Migration affects labour supply and demand in both origin and destination areas. Destination areas may benefit from a larger workforce, while origin areas may suffer from a brain drain.

• Remittances: Migrants often send money back to their home regions, impacting the economy and living standards in the origin area.

5. Social Impact:

• Family Structure: Migration can impact family structures, with some family members moving while others stay behind. This can affect social support systems and family dynamics.

• Integration and Social Cohesion: The influx of migrants can pose challenges for integration and social cohesion in the destination areas, requiring policies to promote inclusion and harmony.

17. Recognise the difference between population increase and change.

Ans:

Population Growth:

• Population growth refers specifically to the increase in the number of individuals in a population over a while.

• It is primarily influenced by two factors: the birth rate (the number of live births per 1,000 people per year) and the death rate (the number of deaths per 1,000 people per year). Population growth is calculated as the difference between the birth rate and the death rate.

• It is often expressed as a percentage increase per year.

• Example: If a country has a high birth rate and a low death rate, it will experience a high rate of population growth.

Population Change:

• Population change encompasses any alteration in the population size, composition, and distribution over some time.

• It includes population growth (births and deaths) and also accounts for migration (the movement of people into and out of a population).

• Immigration: Movement of people into a region, increasing the population.

• Emigration: Movement of people out of a region, decreasing the population.

• Measurement: It is a broader concept than population growth and considers the net effect of births, deaths, immigration, and emigration.

• Example: A country might have a low population growth rate but could still experience significant population change if there is substantial immigration or emigration.

Differences:

1. Scope:

• Population Growth: Focuses solely on the increase in the number of people due to births and deaths.

• Population Change: Includes all factors that alter the population size and structure, including births, deaths, immigration, and emigration.

2. Factors Considered:

• Population Growth: Considers only natural factors (birth rate and death rate).

• Population Change: Considers both natural factors (birth rate and death rate) and migration (immigration and emigration).

3. Outcome:

• Population Growth: Results in an increase in population size.

• Population Change: This can result in an increase or decrease in population size and also affects the composition and distribution of the population.

18. How do development and occupational structure interact?

Ans:

• The occupational structure of a population is closely tied to its level of development. In less developed economies, most people work in the primary sector, such as agriculture, which typically has lower productivity and incomes. 

• As economies develop, there is a shift towards the secondary sector (manufacturing and industry) and eventually to the tertiary sector (services like education, healthcare, and finance). 

• This shift leads to higher productivity, better wages, and improved living standards. Developed economies are characterised by a dominant tertiary sector, reflecting advanced infrastructure, higher levels of education, and greater economic diversification, all of which contribute to a higher quality of life and overall economic stability.

19. What benefits does a healthy population offer?

Ans:

• Increased Productivity: Healthy individuals are more productive and can contribute effectively to the workforce. They have higher energy levels, fewer sick days, and better overall performance at work.

• Economic Growth: A healthy population supports economic growth by reducing healthcare costs and increasing the available labour force. More productive workers lead to higher economic output and efficiency.

• Improved Quality of Life: Healthier populations enjoy a better quality of life with lower morbidity and mortality rates. This leads to greater life satisfaction, longer life expectancy, and enhanced well-being.

• Reduced Healthcare Costs: Healthy populations require less medical care, which reduces the burden on healthcare systems and lowers public and private healthcare expenditures. This allows resources to be allocated more efficiently.

• Enhanced Education Outcomes: Healthy children are more likely to attend school regularly and perform better academically. This leads to better educational outcomes, higher literacy rates, and a more skilled future workforce.

• Social Stability: Good health contributes to social stability by reducing the incidence of diseases and health-related disruptions. It fosters a more cohesive and resilient society.

• Economic Savings: Lower healthcare costs and fewer sick days translate to significant economic savings for individuals, businesses, and governments. These savings can be redirected towards other vital areas like infrastructure and education.

• Attraction of Investment: A healthy population is an attractive feature for investors and businesses, as it indicates a reliable and capable workforce. This can lead to increased foreign and domestic investments.

• Improved Mental Health: Physical health is closely linked to mental health. A healthy population has lower rates of mental health issues, contributing to overall happiness and societal well-being.

• Enhanced Community Engagement: Healthy individuals are more likely to engage in community activities, volunteer work, and civic participation, fostering a stronger sense of community and social cohesion.

20. What noteworthy aspects of the National Population Policy 2000 are there?

Ans:

The National Population Policy (NPP) 2000 of India was established to address the challenges posed by population growth and to promote sustainable development. The policy outlines several significant features aimed at achieving a stable population by 2045.

21. Which state has the greatest rate of literacy?

Ans:

The state with the highest literacy level in India is Kerala. Kerala has consistently maintained the highest literacy rate among all Indian states, reflecting its strong emphasis on education and effective implementation of literacy programs. According to the Census of India 2011, Kerala had a literacy rate of 94.00%, which is significantly higher than the national average. The state’s commitment to education, extensive network of schools and colleges, and social awareness have contributed to its high literacy levels.

22. Write about India's population density.

Ans:

Population density refers to the number of people living per unit area, typically expressed as persons per square kilometre. As of the 2011 Census, India's population density was approximately 382 persons per square kilometre, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. This figure reflects the average number of people living in each square kilometre of land area across the country, but the actual density varies significantly from region to region due to a variety of factors.

Important Topics of Class 9 Geography Chapter 6 Important Questions and Answers

Important Questions of Population Class 9 focus on understanding population distribution and density, population growth and change, factors influencing population distribution, age composition, sex ratio, literacy rate, occupational structure, and migration.

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