Question

Which of the following criteria is NOT correct as per the definition of urban settlement given by the Census of India in 1991?

• A. Place having minimum population of 5000.
• B. At Least 50 percent of male workers are engaged in non-agricultural pursuits.
• C. Place having a density of population of at least 400 person per square kilometer.
• D. All places which have a municipality, corporation, cantonment board or Notified town area committee.

Hint:

Remember the three key numbers for a Census Town: \textbf{5000} population, \textbf{400} density, and \textbf{75%} non-agricultural male workers. The 75% figure is a common point of confusion and is frequently tested.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Conceptual Overview:
The Census of India identifies an "urban settlement" through two classifications. The first is a 'Statutory Town' (corresponding to option 4). The second is a 'Census Town', which is defined by the simultaneous fulfillment of three specific criteria. This question assesses knowledge of these three criteria.
Step 2: Detailed Analysis:
According to the 1991 Census (and subsequent revisions), a settlement qualifies as a Census Town if it meets all three of the following conditions:
1. Minimum population of 5,000. (Option 1 is accurate).
2. Population density of at least 400 persons per square kilometer. (Option 3 is accurate).
3. At least 75 percent of the primary male working population is employed in non-agricultural activities.
Option (2) incorrectly states the requirement as "At Least 50 percent"; the correct threshold is 75%. Option (4) accurately describes Statutory Towns, which represent a separate classification of urban areas. The question specifically seeks the criterion that is NOT correct for the Census Town definition.
Step 3: Conclusion:
The assertion that a minimum of 50 percent of male workers must be engaged in non-agricultural pursuits is factually incorrect. The accurate threshold is 75 percent.