Introduction:
Knowing the population size, distribution, and characteristics of a country is crucial for various reasons. It provides valuable insights into the social, economic, and political dynamics of a nation. In this response, we will explore why it is important to know how many people are there in a country, where they live, how and why their numbers are increasing, and what their characteristics are.

Population as the pivotal element in social studies:
- Understanding the population is essential in social studies as it helps in analyzing and interpreting various social phenomena. The population size and composition influence social structures, norms, and institutions.
- By studying the population, researchers can identify patterns and trends in fertility, mortality, migration, and age distribution, which are crucial for understanding the dynamics of a society.

Human beings as producers and consumers of resources:
- The population is directly linked to the utilization and exploitation of natural resources. Human beings are both producers and consumers of resources, and their numbers significantly impact the demand and supply dynamics.
- By knowing the population size and distribution, policymakers and resource managers can plan and manage the utilization of resources more effectively. They can assess the carrying capacity of the environment and ensure sustainable resource management.

Resource exploitation:
- The population size and characteristics determine the demand for resources such as water, energy, food, and raw materials. Understanding these demands helps in planning and developing infrastructure, industries, and agricultural practices to meet the needs of the population.
- Additionally, knowing the population distribution helps in identifying areas of high resource consumption and areas that may face resource scarcity or environmental degradation.

Social and economic planning:
- Population data is crucial for social and economic planning as it helps in identifying the needs and demands of the population. It aids in the formulation of policies related to education, healthcare, housing, employment, and social welfare.
- By understanding the population characteristics such as age, gender, education level, and occupation, policymakers can target specific groups for interventions and allocate resources accordingly.

Policy formulation and implementation:
- Accurate population data is essential for policymaking and implementation. It provides a basis for determining the allocation of resources, representation in governance, and formulation of laws and regulations.
- Population data helps in identifying vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and marginalized communities, who may require targeted policies and support.

Conclusion:
Knowing the population size, distribution, characteristics, and the factors influencing population dynamics is indispensable for effective policymaking, resource management, and social development. It forms the basis for understanding social structures, resource utilization, and planning for the future. Therefore, understanding the population is crucial for sustainable development and ensuring the well-being of a country's inhabitants.