Geographical patterns and trends of population growth in India

Abstract

Population is a important element in the social, economic, geographical and environmental development of any country. The direction of development of a nation, the use of available natural resources, human development, employment, education, health facilities and standard of living are directly influenced by population. India is currently the world’s most populous nation, and its population has increased significantly during the last 120 years. The present research paper provides a detailed geographical analysis of India's population growth during the period from 1901 to 2024. Based on secondary data obtained from census records and the Government of India, the study analyses decadal changes in population, population growth rates, population distribution, population density, urbanization, and demographic transition, and the social, economic, and geographical factors responsible for population growth.The study reveals that 1921 was considered the