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Census of India: Important Questions for GK GS

Census of India is a decennial survey that records key population, literacy, and demographic data essential for competitive exams like RRB NTPC and SSC. It highlights 2011 figures such as Uttar Pradesh being the most populous, Sikkim the least, Kerala having the highest literacy and sex ratio, and Bihar showing the highest population density. These facts help candidates answer GK questions accurately.

 

authorImagePriyanka Agarwal25 Nov, 2025
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Census of India

Census of India is an important survey carried out once in every 10 years, crucial for collecting data on population, literacy, and other sociological aspects. It is useful for the government to chalk out policies and is also one of the most important topics for competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, RRB Group D, RRB Technician, RRB MI, and UPSC. The first census was held in 1881, and the latest was in 2011.

Some of the key facts include the following: Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state, while Sikkim is the least; Kerala has the highest literacy rate and sex ratio, while Bihar has the highest population density with the lowest literacy. Census data helps in understanding the complete demographics of India and is useful for answering some important questions related to general knowledge in examinations.

What is Census of India?

Census in India is a nationwide survey conducted for the count of every individual within the country. It caries information such as population, gender, literacy rate, religion, and so on. It takes place every 10 years. The last census took place in 2011, and the next is yet to be announced soon.

 

Important Questions on Census of India 

Important Questions on Census of India focus on main information like the first census year, its frequency, and highlights related to demographic details from the 2011 Census. These questions provide information related to the top and bottom states in terms of population, literacy rate, and sex ratio, which is very useful for exam preparation.

1. When was the first census conducted in India?
a) 1872
b) 1861
c) 1850
d) 1881
Answer: d) 1881

2. In India, the census is conducted regularly after every how many years?
a) 5
b) 12
c) 8
d) 10
Answer: d) 10

3. According to the 2011 Census, which was the most populous state of India?
a) Madhya Pradesh
b) Uttarakhand
c) Uttar Pradesh
d) Bihar
Answer: c) Uttar Pradesh

4. According to the 2011 Census, which was the least populated state of India?
a) Arunachal Pradesh
b) Sikkim
c) Goa
d) Nagaland
Answer: b) Sikkim

5. What percent of India’s total population was in Uttar Pradesh in 2011?
a) 14.2%
b) 15.5%
c) 16.5%
d) 20.8%
Answer: c) 16.5%

6. What is the average population density of India per sq km as per the 2011 Census?
a) 267
b) 277
c) 325
d) 382
Answer: d) 382

7. According to the 2011 Census, which state had the highest population density?
a) Uttar Pradesh
b) Bihar
c) Andhra Pradesh
d) West Bengal
Answer: b) Bihar

8. What was the sex ratio in India in 2011 (females per 1000 males)?
a) 913
b) 933
c) 923
d) 943
Answer: d) 943

9. According to the 2011 Census, which state had the highest sex ratio?
a) Tamil Nadu
b) Kerala
c) Chhattisgarh
d) Andhra Pradesh
Answer: b) Kerala

10. What was the child sex ratio (0–6 years) in 2011 (females per 1000 males)?
a) 929
b) 939
c) 919
d) 909
Answer: c) 919

11. According to the 2011 Census, which state had the lowest literacy rate?
a) Kerala
b) Arunachal Pradesh
c) Bihar
d) Maharashtra
Answer: c) Bihar

12. Which Union Territory had the highest literacy rate in 2011?
a) Lakshadweep
b) Chandigarh
c) Daman and Diu
d) Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Answer: a) Lakshadweep

13. During whose tenure was the first census conducted in British India?
a) Lord Dufferin
b) Lord Lytton
c) Lord Mayo
d) Lord Ripon
Answer: d) Lord Ripon

Census of India Important Questions PDF

Census of India Important Questions PDF covers the frequently asked questions along with the key insights regarding the decennial population census of India, which ranges from demography to state-wise statistics, literacy rates, and population density. This will act as a helpful resource in UPSC and other competitive exam preparations.

Why is Census Data Important for Exams?

Following is a normal trend in competitive exams like RRB NTPC, SSC, and all the state PSCs, which include questions on population, density, literacy, and some more social indicators. Memorizing key facts and figures will help the student answer MCQs faster and accurately.

The Census of India, carried out every decade, becomes an essential source of data to make planned decisions as well as to formulate policies. It shows Uttar Pradesh as the most populous state, Sikkim as the least, Kerala with the highest literacy rate and sex ratio, and Bihar with the highest population density yet the lowest literacy rate.

  • The Census of India is held every 10 years.

  • Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state.

  • Sikkim is the least populous state.

  • Kerala has the highest literacy rate and sex ratio.

  • Bihar has the highest population density and lowest literacy rate.

  • Census data helps in planning and policy-making.

PW provides Railway exam content, including Railway Exam Blogs, sample papers, mock tests, guidance sessions, and more. Also, enroll today on Railway Online Coaching for preparation.

Census of India FAQs

What is the main purpose of the Census of India?

The Census of India aids the government in understanding the size and needs of the population. It guides planning for schools, hospitals, and other public services.

Why is the Census conducted every 10 years?

10-year gap makes sure that data remains fresh and up-to-date to reflect changes in population and society. It helps in updating policies and development plans.

Who benefits from Census data?

Government officials, planners, and researchers use Census data to base their decisions on. These benefit the individual citizens in terms of improved services as well as welfare schemes reaching them.

What type of information does the Census collect?

It collects information such as age, sex, education, occupation, and housing. This provides insight into the social and economic composition of the country.
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