Question

Two statements are given below. They are Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read both the statements carefully and choose the correct option. Assertion (A) : India has highly uneven pattern of population distribution.
Reason (R) : Population distribution is highly associated with physical, socio-economic and historical factors.

• A. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
• B. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
• C. (A) is correct, but (R) is incorrect.
• D. (A) is incorrect, but (R) is correct.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

India exhibits a significantly uneven population distribution. States such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Bihar are densely populated, contrasting with sparsely populated states like Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Sikkim. This disparity arises from several contributing factors:

• Physical Factors: Regions characterized by flat plains, fertile soil, a moderate climate, and abundant water resources (e.g., the Indo-Gangetic plain) sustain high population densities. Conversely, arid areas (like Rajasthan), mountainous terrains (such as the Himalayas), and dense forests (common in the Northeast) typically have low population densities.
• Socio-economic Factors: Areas with superior infrastructure, transportation networks, industrial development, educational facilities, and employment prospects (for instance, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru) tend to attract more inhabitants, resulting in higher population concentrations.
• Historical Factors: Past colonial policies, historical migration trends, and early industrialization have also contributed to concentrated populations in certain areas. For example, Kolkata's development as a colonial port and commercial center led to its dense settlement.

Therefore, both the Assertion and the Reason are accurate, and the Reason provides a correct explanation for the Assertion.