All questions of India: Facts and figures for UPSC CSE Exam

Uttar Pradesh has the highest population density among Indian states.

Population Density Calculation:
- Population density is calculated by dividing the total population of a region by its total land area.
- In the case of Uttar Pradesh, it has a high population count in comparison to its land area, resulting in a high population density.

Reasons for High Population Density in Uttar Pradesh:
- **Agricultural Hub**: Uttar Pradesh is known for its fertile land and agricultural activities, which attract a large population engaged in farming.
- **Historical Significance**: The state has a rich historical and cultural heritage, leading to a dense population due to urbanization and industrialization.
- **Economic Opportunities**: Uttar Pradesh offers various economic opportunities, attracting people from different parts of the country in search of better livelihoods.
- **Political Importance**: Being the most populous state in India, Uttar Pradesh holds political significance, contributing to its high population density.

Comparison with Other States:
- **Bihar**: While Bihar also has a significant population density, Uttar Pradesh surpasses it due to its larger population count.
- **West Bengal**: West Bengal has a high population density as well, but Uttar Pradesh's sheer size and population make it the leader in this aspect.
- **Maharashtra**: Maharashtra, despite being one of the most industrialized states in India, has a lower population density compared to Uttar Pradesh.

Therefore, Uttar Pradesh stands out as the Indian state with the highest population density, attributed to various factors such as agriculture, history, economy, and politics.

Population of India

India's population is approximately 1.3 billion as of the latest available data.

Factors contributing to India's population
- High birth rate: India has a high birth rate, contributing to the large population size.
- Improved healthcare: Advances in healthcare have led to lower mortality rates, allowing more people to survive and contribute to population growth.
- Cultural factors: Traditionally, large families are common in India, leading to population growth.

Challenges and opportunities
- Challenges: Overpopulation can strain resources, infrastructure, and the environment, leading to issues such as poverty, food scarcity, and pollution.
- Opportunities: A large population also presents opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and a diverse workforce.

Government initiatives
- Family planning programs: The government has implemented various family planning programs to educate and provide access to contraceptives.
- Health and education initiatives: Investments in healthcare and education can help address population challenges by improving overall well-being and reducing birth rates.

In conclusion, India's population is approximately 1.3 billion, and while it presents challenges, there are also opportunities for growth and development with the right policies and programs in place.

The Mullaperiyar Dam: An Overview
The Mullaperiyar Dam is a significant structure located in the Western Ghats of India, primarily known for its strategic and contentious position between two Indian states.
Location
- The dam is situated in the Idukki district of Kerala.
- It is operated by Tamil Nadu and is located on the Periyar River.
States Involved
- The Mullaperiyar Dam lies between Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
- This geographical positioning has made it a focal point of interstate disputes over water sharing, dam safety, and management.
Historical Context
- Constructed in 1895, the dam was built under an agreement between the British government and the then Maharaja of Travancore.
- The dam's primary purpose was to store water for irrigation in Tamil Nadu, which continues to be a point of contention.
Dispute Issues
- The primary issues involve concerns over the dam's structural integrity and the safety of the people living downstream in Kerala.
- Kerala has raised alarms over the dam's age and its capacity to withstand potential seismic activities.
Conclusion
The Mullaperiyar Dam remains a crucial asset for water resources but also a battleground for political and environmental concerns between Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Understanding its location and the implications of its management is essential for grasping the complexities of interstate relations in India.

The correct answer is option 'D', Koyna River.

Koyna Dam is located in the state of Maharashtra, India. It is one of the largest dams in Maharashtra and a significant source of hydroelectric power. The dam is built on the Koyna River, which is impounded to form the Koyna reservoir.

Here is a detailed explanation of the answer:

1. Location of Koyna Dam:
The Koyna Dam is situated in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, near the town of Koynanagar in Satara district. It is built in the Koyna River valley, which is a tributary of the Krishna River.

2. Koyna River:
The Koyna River originates in Mahabaleshwar and flows through the Sahyadri mountain ranges. It is a major tributary of the Krishna River. The river passes through dense forests and scenic landscapes before reaching the Koyna Dam site.

3. Impoundment of Koyna River:
The Koyna Dam is a gravity dam that impounds the Koyna River. The dam is constructed across the river, creating a reservoir or a water body behind it. The reservoir formed by the dam is known as the Koyna reservoir.

4. Purpose of Koyna Dam:
The primary purpose of the Koyna Dam is to generate hydroelectric power. It has a substantial installed capacity of 1,960 MW, making it one of the largest hydroelectric power stations in India. The dam's reservoir also serves as a water source for irrigation and drinking water supply to nearby areas.

5. Importance of Koyna Dam:
The Koyna Dam and the hydroelectric power station play a crucial role in meeting the electricity demands of Maharashtra. The dam's reservoir and the surrounding area are also popular tourist destinations, attracting nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

In conclusion, the Koyna Dam impounds the Koyna River to form the Koyna reservoir. The dam is a significant source of hydroelectric power and is located in Maharashtra, India.

The Largest Wildlife Sanctuary in India: Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary

The Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the state of Gujarat, is the largest wildlife sanctuary in India. It covers an area of approximately 5,000 square kilometers and is spread across the Kutch and Surendranagar districts of Gujarat. The sanctuary is renowned for its unique and diverse ecosystem, making it a significant conservation area in the country.

Location and Geography
The Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the westernmost part of India, bordering Pakistan. It encompasses the vast salt marshes of the Great Rann of Kutch, which are known for their white salt crusts and barren expanses. The sanctuary also includes the adjacent Banni grasslands, which provide a contrasting habitat for various wildlife species.

Flora and Fauna
The sanctuary is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, adapted to the arid and saline conditions of the region. The vegetation primarily consists of xerophytic plants, such as thorny shrubs, grasses, and salt-resistant species. Some of the prominent plant species found in the sanctuary include Prosopis juliflora, Salvadora persica, and Capparis decidua.

The Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse wildlife population. It serves as a breeding ground and wintering habitat for several migratory bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, cranes, and ducks. The sanctuary is also inhabited by various mammals, such as the Indian wild ass, chinkara, blackbuck, wolf, and desert fox. Reptiles like the tortoise, spiny-tailed lizard, and monitor lizard can also be found here.

Conservation Efforts
The sanctuary is recognized for its ecological importance and has been designated as a Ramsar site, a wetland of international significance. It is managed and protected by the Gujarat Forest Department, which implements conservation measures to preserve the unique ecosystem and biodiversity of the region.

Tourism and Activities
The Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary attracts numerous nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Visitors can explore the sanctuary through jeep safaris, camel rides, and nature walks. The sanctuary also offers opportunities for bird watching, especially during the winter months when migratory birds flock to the wetlands.

In addition to wildlife, the sanctuary is renowned for its cultural heritage, with nearby villages showcasing traditional art, crafts, and music. The Rann Utsav, a vibrant festival celebrating the culture and beauty of the region, is held annually and draws tourists from across the country.

Conclusion
The Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary stands as the largest wildlife sanctuary in India, encompassing the unique ecosystems of the Great Rann of Kutch and Banni grasslands. With its diverse flora and fauna, conservation efforts, and cultural significance, the sanctuary serves as a testament to India's rich natural heritage.

Mullaperiyar Dam Overview
The Mullaperiyar Dam is a significant structure located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. Despite its geographical location, the dam is owned and operated by the state of Tamil Nadu.
Ownership and Operation
- The dam was built in 1895 under the British Raj and was intended to divert water from the Periyar River to the drought-prone regions of Tamil Nadu.
- The Tamil Nadu government manages the dam under a lease agreement with the Kerala government, which was established in 1886.
Geopolitical Significance
- The ownership has led to a long-standing dispute between the two states, primarily over concerns regarding safety and water rights.
- Tamil Nadu relies heavily on the dam for irrigation and power generation, while Kerala raises concerns about the structural integrity of the dam and the potential risks to its residents.
Legal and Environmental Issues
- The matter has escalated to legal battles in the Supreme Court of India, with various rulings attempting to address safety concerns while ensuring water availability for irrigation.
- Environmental considerations have also emerged, focusing on the ecological impact of water diversion and the dam's management.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Mullaperiyar Dam serves as a crucial resource for Tamil Nadu, despite being situated in Kerala. The complexities of ownership, safety concerns, and inter-state relations make it a significant topic in discussions related to water resources and governance in India.

Overview of Andhra Pradesh's Capital
The capital of Andhra Pradesh is Amaravati, which was officially designated as the state capital in 2015. Here’s a detailed explanation:
Historical Context
- Hyderabad: Previously, Hyderabad served as the capital of Andhra Pradesh before the bifurcation of the state in 2014, when Telangana was created.
- Amaravati’s Selection: After the bifurcation, the government decided to establish a new capital to reflect the aspirations of the region and to decentralize development.
Amaravati's Significance
- Planned City: Amaravati is being developed as a planned city, designed to accommodate the needs of the state’s administrative functions and to promote economic growth.
- Cultural Heritage: The city is situated on the banks of the Krishna River and is known for its rich historical and cultural significance, with links to ancient Buddhist heritage.
Current Status
- Infrastructure Development: The development of Amaravati involves extensive infrastructure projects, including government buildings, residential areas, and transportation systems.
- Future Prospects: As the capital, Amaravati aims to become a hub for governance, commerce, and education, with an emphasis on sustainable development.
Conclusion
In summary, while Hyderabad was the capital before the bifurcation, Amaravati was chosen as the new capital of Andhra Pradesh to symbolize a fresh start and to promote balanced growth within the state.

Explanation:

CARTOSAT series
The CARTOSAT series of Indian satellites are primarily used for remote sensing applications. These satellites are designed to provide high-resolution images for cartographic, urban, rural, and infrastructure development, as well as applications in land information system (LIS) and geographical information system (GIS).

Remote Sensing Applications
- The CARTOSAT series satellites are equipped with high-resolution cameras that provide detailed images of the Earth's surface.
- These images are used for various purposes such as urban planning, rural development, environmental monitoring, disaster management, and resource mapping.
- The data collected by these satellites is valuable for agriculture, forestry, water resources, and infrastructure development.

Features of CARTOSAT series
- The CARTOSAT series satellites have different sensors and resolutions for various applications.
- They can capture images in different spectral bands, allowing for various types of analysis.
- These satellites have a high revisit time, which means they can capture images of the same location frequently.

Conclusion
The CARTOSAT series of Indian satellites play a crucial role in remote sensing applications by providing high-resolution images for various purposes. These satellites are a valuable asset for the country's development and monitoring of natural resources.

The correct answer is option 'A': Tapi River.

The Ukai Dam is one of the largest reservoirs in India and it is built across the Tapi River. Let's explore more details about the Ukai Dam and the Tapi River.

About the Ukai Dam:
1. The Ukai Dam, also known as the Vallabh Sagar Dam, is located near Ukai village in Gujarat, India.
2. It is built across the Tapi River, which flows through the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat.
3. The dam was constructed to fulfill the water requirements of the region, including irrigation, drinking water supply, and industrial use.
4. It is a multipurpose project that serves various purposes like hydroelectric power generation, flood control, and water supply.
5. The dam has a height of 77 meters and a length of 492 meters. Its reservoir has a storage capacity of 46,500 million cubic feet.

Importance of the Tapi River:
1. The Tapi River is one of the major rivers in central India and flows through the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
2. It originates in the Betul district of Madhya Pradesh and flows westward before joining the Arabian Sea near Surat in Gujarat.
3. The river has a total length of around 724 kilometers and covers a drainage area of about 65,145 square kilometers.
4. The Tapi River is an important water resource for the states it passes through, providing water for irrigation, drinking, and industrial purposes.
5. It supports the agricultural activities in the region and is a lifeline for the people residing along its banks.

Impacts of the Ukai Dam:
1. The construction of the Ukai Dam has had several positive impacts on the region. It has helped in mitigating floods, as the reservoir can store excess water during heavy rainfall.
2. The dam has also facilitated irrigation in the surrounding areas, leading to increased agricultural productivity and improved livelihoods for farmers.
3. The hydroelectric power generation capacity of the dam has contributed to the energy requirements of the region.
4. Furthermore, the reservoir has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its scenic beauty and boating facilities.

In conclusion, the Ukai Dam is built across the Tapi River in Gujarat, India. It serves multiple purposes like irrigation, power generation, flood control, and water supply to the region. The Tapi River itself is an important water resource for Maharashtra and Gujarat, supporting agriculture and other activities along its course.

Introduction to Odisha
Odisha, located on the eastern coast of India, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Among its many treasures, the most famous is the Sun Temple at Konark.
Significance of the Sun Temple
- The Sun Temple at Konark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is dedicated to the sun god Surya.
- Built in the 13th century, it is an architectural marvel, designed in the shape of a gigantic chariot with 24 intricately carved wheels.
- The temple represents the zenith of Kalinga architecture and is notable for its detailed sculptures and exquisite artwork.
Cultural Importance
- The Sun Temple holds immense cultural and religious significance, attracting pilgrims and tourists from around the globe.
- It is a symbol of Odisha’s rich history and artistic legacy, showcasing the advanced craftsmanship of ancient artisans.
Tourism and Attractions
- The surrounding region offers beautiful beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, and other historical monuments, making Odisha a diverse travel destination.
- The annual Konark Dance Festival, held in the temple's vicinity, celebrates classical dance forms and further enhances the cultural vibrancy of the area.
Conclusion
In summary, Odisha, as the eastern coastal state known for the Sun Temple at Konark, stands out for its historical, architectural, and cultural richness. This temple not only represents the artistic achievements of the time but also continues to be a focal point for tourism and cultural heritage in India.

The state in India with the highest infant mortality rate (IMR) is Assam.

Factors contributing to high IMR in Assam:
1. Healthcare Infrastructure:
- Assam faces challenges in terms of healthcare infrastructure, with limited access to healthcare facilities in remote areas.
- Lack of well-equipped hospitals, clinics, and healthcare centers in rural areas affects the availability and quality of healthcare services.

2. Maternal Health:
- Assam has a high maternal mortality rate (MMR), which directly affects IMR.
- Poor maternal health during pregnancy, lack of proper antenatal care, and inadequate access to skilled birth attendants contribute to high IMR.

3. Malnutrition:
- Assam has a high prevalence of malnutrition among children, which further increases the risk of infant mortality.
- Lack of proper nutrition during pregnancy and early childhood can lead to weak immune systems and increased susceptibility to diseases.

4. Sanitation and Hygiene:
- Poor sanitation and hygiene practices in many areas of Assam contribute to the spread of diseases.
- Lack of access to clean water, proper sanitation facilities, and hygiene education increases the risk of infections and diseases among infants.

5. Socioeconomic Factors:
- Assam faces socioeconomic challenges, including poverty, which affects the overall health and well-being of the population.
- Limited access to education, healthcare, and nutrition exacerbates the problem of high IMR.

Efforts to reduce IMR in Assam:
1. Government Initiatives:
- The government of Assam has implemented various initiatives to address the high IMR, such as the National Health Mission and the Assam State Health Policy.
- These initiatives focus on improving healthcare infrastructure, providing better maternal and child health services, and promoting awareness about healthcare practices.

2. Immunization Programs:
- Immunization programs have been intensified to increase the coverage of vaccines among infants and children.
- Vaccines protect against various diseases and reduce the likelihood of infant mortality.

3. Nutrition Programs:
- The government has also initiated nutrition programs, such as the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, to address malnutrition among children.
- These programs aim to provide nutritious meals, supplements, and health education to pregnant women and children.

4. Awareness Campaigns:
- Awareness campaigns are conducted to educate communities about the importance of healthcare practices, sanitation, hygiene, and nutrition.
- These campaigns aim to change behaviors and promote positive health practices.

Overall, while efforts are being made to reduce the infant mortality rate in Assam, addressing the underlying challenges of healthcare infrastructure, maternal health, malnutrition, sanitation, and socioeconomic factors remains crucial to achieve significant improvements in infant survival rates.

Overview of Bhakra Nangal Dam
The Bhakra Nangal Dam, located on the Sutlej River in Himachal Pradesh, is one of the largest dams in India. It plays a crucial role in irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation.
States Benefited by Bhakra Nangal Dam
The dam primarily provides irrigation facilities to two states:

• Punjab: The dam supports extensive agricultural activities in Punjab, which is known as the "Granary of India." It ensures a stable water supply for crops like wheat and rice, enhancing agricultural productivity.
• Haryana: The dam also significantly benefits Haryana, where irrigation is vital for its agricultural economy. The water from the Bhakra Nangal Dam supports various crops and helps in maintaining the state's agricultural output.

Importance of Irrigation from the Dam
The irrigation facilities provided by Bhakra Nangal Dam have transformed the agrarian landscape of both states:

• Increased Agricultural Productivity: The availability of water has led to multiple cropping seasons, boosting food production.
• Economic Growth: Improved irrigation has raised farmers' incomes and contributed to the overall economic development of Punjab and Haryana.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the correct answer is option 'A', as the Bhakra Nangal Dam primarily supports irrigation in Punjab and Haryana, making it a critical infrastructure project for these states' agricultural economies.

Television Broadcasting Services:
INSAT-4B was primarily launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to provide television broadcasting services. It was a communication satellite designed to enhance the broadcasting capabilities in India.

Role in Television Broadcasting:
- INSAT-4B facilitated the transmission of television signals to homes across the country, improving the reach and quality of television services.
- It enabled the delivery of a wide range of television channels to viewers, including both national and regional channels.

Enhancing Broadcast Services:
- The satellite played a crucial role in expanding the reach of television broadcasting services to remote and rural areas of India, where terrestrial broadcasting infrastructure was limited.
- By using INSAT-4B, broadcasters could reach a wider audience and provide better coverage for important events, news, entertainment, and educational programs.

Impact on Media Industry:
- The availability of INSAT-4B greatly benefited the media industry in India by enabling broadcasters to offer a more diverse range of content to viewers.
- It also contributed to the growth of the television industry in the country, as more channels could be launched and existing channels could improve their services.
In conclusion, INSAT-4B was instrumental in enhancing television broadcasting services in India by providing a reliable and efficient platform for the transmission of television signals to viewers across the country.

The replacement level fertility rate refers to the average number of children that a woman needs to have in her lifetime in order to replace herself and her partner in the population. It is the rate at which the population remains stable over time, with births and deaths balancing each other out.

The correct answer to this question is option 'B', which is 2.1. This means that, on average, each woman needs to have 2.1 children in order to maintain a stable population size.

Explanation:
There are several factors that contribute to the replacement level fertility rate:

1. Mortality Rate: The replacement level fertility rate takes into account the mortality rate of a population. It assumes that some children will not survive to reproductive age, and thus, a slightly higher fertility rate is required to compensate for these deaths.

2. Gender Ratio: The replacement level fertility rate also considers the gender ratio in a population. Since only women can bear children, the rate needs to account for the fact that not every person in the population is capable of reproduction.

3. Desired Family Size: The replacement level fertility rate is influenced by the desired family size of individuals in a population. If the desired family size is lower than the replacement level fertility rate, the population will decline over time. Conversely, if the desired family size is higher, the population will continue to grow.

4. Population Age Structure: The replacement level fertility rate is also affected by the age structure of a population. In countries with a large proportion of elderly individuals, a higher fertility rate may be required to maintain a stable population size.

In conclusion, the replacement level fertility rate is the average number of children that a woman needs to have in order to maintain a stable population size. The correct answer to this question is option 'B', which is 2.1. This rate takes into account factors such as mortality rate, gender ratio, desired family size, and population age structure.