The Census of India is the largest single source of population data in the country. It is conducted once every ten years by the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The last completed census was in 2011, and its figures are used heavily in exams.
Census Basics
- The first census in India was held in 1872 under Lord Mayo.
- The first complete and regular census began in 1881 under Lord Ripon.
- The 2011 Census was the 15th national census and the 7th since independence.
- The theme of the 2011 Census was 'Our Census, Our Future'.
Key Figures of Census 2011
- Total population: about 121.08 crore (1.21 billion).
- Decadal growth rate (2001-2011): about 17.7 percent.
- Population density: 382 persons per square km.
- Sex ratio: 943 females per 1000 males.
- Literacy rate: 74.04 percent (male 82.14, female 65.46).
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States at the Extremes
- Most populous state: Uttar Pradesh; least populous: Sikkim.
- Most densely populated state: Bihar; least dense: Arunachal Pradesh.
- Highest literacy: Kerala; lowest literacy: Bihar.
- Highest sex ratio: Kerala; lowest among states: Haryana.
- Among Union Territories, Delhi is the most populous and Lakshadweep the least.
Why the Census Matters
Census data guides the delimitation of constituencies, reservation of seats, allocation of central funds and welfare planning. It also tracks long-term trends in literacy, urbanisation and the sex ratio.
Quick Revision Points
- Census is held every 10 years; last one in 2011.
- First census 1872; first regular census 1881.
- 2011 population = about 121 crore.
- Sex ratio 943; literacy 74.04 percent.
- Density 382 per sq km; growth 17.7 percent.
- Most populous state = Uttar Pradesh; densest = Bihar.
- Highest literacy and sex ratio = Kerala.