Question

“The third phase of population growth is referred to as the period of population explosion in India.” Evaluate the statement with examples.

Hint:

The period of population explosion in India can be attributed to the combination of medical advances, the Green Revolution, and high fertility rates that led to rapid population growth.

Answer 1

The third phase of India's population growth, occurring primarily after the 1950s, is characterized as a "population explosion." This period saw a swift and unhindered population increase driven by enhancements in healthcare, sanitation, and agriculture, resulting in extended life expectancies and reduced mortality.

• Enhanced Healthcare and Sanitation: Medical and public health policy advancements led to a significant drop in mortality rates, particularly infant mortality, contributing to population expansion. For example, the introduction of vaccines, superior medical facilities, and improved sanitation spurred a population surge in the 1950s and 1960s.
• Green Revolution: The Green Revolution of the 1960s boosted agricultural productivity, ensuring a consistent food supply. This was vital in sustaining the growing population by mitigating food scarcity and improving nutritional intake.
• High Fertility Rate: The fertility rate remained elevated during this time, fueling rapid population growth. A lack of family planning awareness and restricted access to contraception contributed to the population explosion.
• Statistical Evidence: India's population escalated from approximately 361 million in 1951 to 683 million in 1981, illustrating the pronounced increase during this phase.

Consequently, the third population growth phase, also termed the population explosion, was defined by a substantial population surge, predominantly attributed to improvements in healthcare, agricultural progress, and elevated birth rates.