Class 9 Geography Chapter 1 Question Answers - Contemporary India - I

Q1. What are the processes of population change or growth? Describe them.

Ans: Population change occurs through three main processes:

• Birth rates: This is the number of live births per thousand people in a year. In India, birth rates have historically been higher than death rates, contributing significantly to population growth.
• Death rates: This refers to the number of deaths per thousand people in a year. The decline in death rates has been a key factor in the growth of India's population.
• Migration: This involves the movement of people, either within the country (internal migration) or across borders (international migration). While internal migration does not change the overall population size, it affects how people are distributed across regions.

Q2. “Distribution of population is uneven in India”. Describe the factors responsible for it.

Ans: Uneven population distribution in India is marked by significant differences in population density across various regions. The factors contributing to this uneven distribution include:

• Climate: The western part of Rajasthan has low population density due to extreme temperatures and low rainfall, making it inhospitable. Similarly, cities like Patna, Kanpur, and Kolkata, provide essential resources like drinking water and fertile soil.
• Economic Opportunities: Industrial hubs such as Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai attract large populations due to better job prospects. In contrast, areas lacking industries tend to have lower populations.
• Transport Connectivity: Regions with well-developed transport systems, including roadways, railways, and waterways, tend to be more densely populated. Efficient transport facilitates the movement and distribution of people.

Q3. Which regions of India have moderate population densities and which regions have high to very high population densities? Why?

Ans: Assam and most of the peninsular states of India have moderate population densities. The following factors contribute to this:

• Hilly and rocky terrain
• Low to moderate rainfall
• Shallow and less fertile soils

In contrast, the Northern plains and Kerala in the south experience high to very high population densities due to:

• Flat plains with fertile soils
• Abundant rainfall

Q4. The substantial improvement in the health conditions of the Indian population is the result of many factors. What are these factors?

Ans: Health is an important component of population composition, influencing development. Significant improvements in the health conditions of the Indian population are attributed to various factors:

• Improvement in public health initiatives.
• Prevention of infectious diseases through vaccination and awareness.
• Application of modern medical practices for diagnosing and treating ailments.

Q5. What did the National Population policy 2000 do for the adolescent population of India?

Ans: The National Population Policy 2000 recognised adolescents as a crucial demographic requiring focused attention. Key aspects of the policy include:

• Nutritional needs: Emphasised the importance of adequate nutrition for adolescents.
• Delayed marriage: Promoted programmes encouraging delayed marriage and childbearing.
• Sex education: Aimed to educate adolescents about the risks of unprotected sex.
• Contraceptive access: Made contraceptive services more accessible and affordable.

Q6. Write a note on India’s population distribution by density.

Ans: Population density gives insight into the uneven distribution of people across India. It is calculated as the number of individuals per unit area. Key points about India's population density:

• India is among the most densely populated countries globally.
• In 2011, the population density was 382 persons per sq. km.
• Density varies significantly across states: Bihar: 1,102 persons per sq. km, Arunachal Pradesh: only 17 persons per sq. km.

Q7. Look at the following table carefully. What does it indicate? What can be done to turn the sex ratio in favour of females? The Magnitude and Rate of India’s Population Growth

Ans: The table indicates that the sex ratio in India has consistently been unfavourable to females. In 1951, there were 946 females for every 1000 males. This number has declined over the decades, reaching 940 females per 1000 males in 2011. This trend reflects a patriarchal mindset prevalent in society.

To improve the sex ratio in favour of females, the following actions can be taken:

• Promote education across all regions of the country.
• Encourage awareness about the value of female children.
• Implement strict laws against gender discrimination.
• Support community programmes that empower women.

Q8. Why is the health situation still in matter of major concern for India?

Ans: Despite significant progress in health conditions in India, several issues remain a major concern:

• Low calorie consumption: The average per capita calorie intake is well below recommended levels, leading to widespread malnutrition.
• Limited access to clean water: Only one-third of the rural population has access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation.
• Healthcare shortages: Many areas lack an adequate number of doctors and nurses, and hospitals are often in poor condition.