Points to Remember:
- The question focuses on identifying the Indian Census year associated with a significant demographic shift.
- The keywords are “Big Divide,” “Demographic Divide,” and specific Census years.
- The required approach is factual, relying on historical census data.
Introduction:
The Indian Census, conducted periodically, provides crucial demographic data reflecting the nation’s population trends, social structures, and economic conditions. Certain census years mark significant turning points due to major demographic shifts. The question asks us to identify the census year labelled the “Big Divide” or “Demographic Divide” in India’s demographic history. This term refers to a period of significant change in population growth or distribution, often reflecting major historical events or policy changes.
Body:
The 1921 Census and the “Big Divide”:
The correct answer is (B) 1921. The 1921 Census is widely recognized as marking the “Big Divide” or “Demographic Divide” in India’s demographic history. This was primarily due to the devastating influenza pandemic of 1918-19, which caused an unprecedented loss of life across the globe, including India. The pandemic’s impact on India’s population was catastrophic, resulting in a significant decline in population growth. The 1921 census recorded a population decrease compared to the previous census, a rare event in India’s history of generally high population growth. This sharp decline in population growth is what led to the 1921 census being termed the “Big Divide.”
Why other options are incorrect:
- 1911 Census: While the 1911 census provided valuable data, it did not mark a significant turning point in the same way as 1921.
- 1931 Census: The 1931 census reflected the population recovery after the 1918-19 pandemic, showing a return to a positive growth rate.
- 1941 Census: The 1941 census was conducted before the partition of India, and while it provided important data, it’s not associated with the term “Big Divide” in the same context as 1921.
Conclusion:
In summary, the 1921 Census is definitively identified as the “Big Divide” or “Demographic Divide” in India due to the unprecedented population decline caused by the 1918-19 influenza pandemic. This event significantly altered India’s demographic trajectory, making the 1921 census a pivotal point in understanding the nation’s population history. Understanding this historical event is crucial for analyzing long-term population trends and formulating effective population policies. The accurate interpretation of census data allows for better planning and resource allocation, contributing to the holistic development of the nation.