In the urban geography and demographic framework of India, urban settlements are broadly c… — State PSC Exam

In the urban geography and demographic framework of India, urban settlements are broadly classified into Statutory Towns and Census Towns. Which of the following sets of demographic and economic criteria accurately defines a 'Census Town' as per the Census of India?

A minimum population of $5,000$ , at least $75\%$ of the male main working population engaged in non-agricultural pursuits, and a population density of at least $400\text{ persons per sq. km}$ .Answer
B
A minimum population of $10,000$ , at least $50\%$ of the total working population engaged in non-agricultural pursuits, and a population density of at least $500\text{ persons per sq. km}$ .
C
A minimum population of $5,000$ , at least $75\%$ of the female working population engaged in non-agricultural pursuits, and a population density of at least $300\text{ persons per sq. km}$ .
D
A minimum population of $2,500$ , at least $60\%$ of the male main working population engaged in non-agricultural pursuits, and a population density of at least $400\text{ persons per sq. km}$ .

Answer

A settlement in India is identified as a Census Town if it meets three specific criteria: a minimum population of

5,000

, at least

75\%

of the male main working population engaged in non-agricultural activities, and a population density of at least

400\text{ persons per sq. km}

The correct answer accurately reflects the three-fold demographic test applied by the Census of India to designate a rural area as a 'Census Town': a minimum population of

5,000

, a density of at least

400\text{ persons per sq. km}

, and at least

75\%

of the male main working population employed outside agriculture.

Step-by-Step Solution

Distinguish between Statutory Towns and Census Towns in Indian urban geography.

Statutory Towns are places governed by urban local bodies (municipalities, corporations, notified area committees) by law, whereas Census Towns are demographically urban areas lacking statutory local self-governments.

Understanding the administrative versus demographic definition helps isolate the quantitative census criteria.

Evaluate the official Census of India criteria for non-statutory urban places (Census Towns).

The three mandatory conditions are: (i) Minimum population of

5,000

, (ii) At least

75\%

of male main workers involved in non-agricultural sectors, and (iii) Minimum population density of

400\text{ persons per sq. km}

All three criteria must be simultaneously satisfied for a settlement to be classified as a Census Town.

Match the evaluated criteria with the options provided.

The statement specifying

5,000

population,

75\%

male main non-agricultural workers, and

400\text{ persons per sq. km}

density is correct.

This directly corresponds to the official Census definition.

Key Concept

Criteria for Classification of Census Towns in India

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