📌 Topic 02 of 6 · Chapter 10 · Population & Urbanisation
Population Growth & Distribution in India
Phases of growth, 1921 Year of Great Divide, demographic dividend — complete notes for UPSC & PSC exams.
📈 Phases of Population Growth
| Phase | Period | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Phase I — Stagnant | Before 1921 | High birth rate + high death rate = slow growth; 1921 = “Year of Great Divide” |
| Phase II — Steady Growth | 1921–1951 | Death rate declining; birth rate still high; moderate growth |
| Phase III — Rapid Growth | 1951–1981 | Population explosion; death rate fell sharply; birth rate still high |
| Phase IV — Declining Growth | 1981–present | Birth rate declining; growth rate slowing; demographic transition |
⭐ 1921 = “Year of Great Divide”:
Before 1921, India’s population growth was stagnant (high birth rate + high death rate). After 1921, the death rate started declining while birth rate remained high → consistent population growth. The 1921 census showed a slight decline due to the 1918 influenza pandemic and famines.
Before 1921, India’s population growth was stagnant (high birth rate + high death rate). After 1921, the death rate started declining while birth rate remained high → consistent population growth. The 1921 census showed a slight decline due to the 1918 influenza pandemic and famines.
📊 Demographic Dividend
- Demographic Dividend = economic growth potential from large working-age population (15–64 years)
- India’s demographic dividend window: 2020–2040
- ~65% of India’s population is below 35 years
- Provides large labour force, higher savings, increased consumption
- India needs to invest in education and skill development to harness this
- TFR (Total Fertility Rate) = 2.0 (2020) = below replacement level (2.1)