Which of the followings is called the 'Demographic Divide' in India?

Correct option is A

The year 1921 is referred to as the 'Demographic Divide' in India. This was the only census year in which India recorded a negative population growth, primarily due to the high death rate caused by epidemics like the influenza pandemic of 1918–19 and poor health infrastructure.

Information Booster:

1. Post-1921, India's population began increasing consistently due to improvements in healthcare, sanitation, and food supply.
2. 1921 Census showed a population decline of 0.31% compared to 1911.
3. It marked the transition to the second stage of the demographic cycle, characterized by declining death rates but continued high birth rates.
4. The period before 1921 is often called the 'Period of Stagnant Population'.
5. Post-1921, India's population growth became rapid, with the highest decadal growth recorded in 1971 Census.

Additional Knowledge:

• (a) 1921: Correct; demographic divide due to negative growth.
• (b) 1931: Incorrect; marked continued population growth.
• (c) 1941: Incorrect; significant increase due to better health services.
• (d) 1951: Incorrect; first census after independence, marked the start of planned development.