As per Census 2011, which of the following states experienced a decline in rural population compared to 2001?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (A) Kerala

Explanation:
• According to the 2011 Census, Kerala and Goa were the states that recorded a decline in their rural population.
• This was primarily due to rapid urbanization and the reclassification of many rural areas into 'census towns'.
• Kerala's urban population increased significantly from 25.96% in 2001 to 47.72% in 2011.

Information Booster:
• Total Population Growth: India’s decadal growth rate was 17.7%.
• Rural-Urban Split: In 2011, 68.84% of the population lived in rural areas while 31.16% lived in urban areas.
• Highest Rural Growth: Bihar recorded the highest growth in rural population.

Additional Knowledge:
• Gujarat (Option B): Saw a steady growth in both rural and urban sectors, though urbanization is high.
• Karnataka (Option C) & Andhra Pradesh (Option D): These southern states saw positive growth in rural populations, although their urban growth rates were higher than the rural ones.