GS - Census
GS - Census
5
Gender Composition of the
Population
Equality between women and men is a matter of human rights and
a condition for social justice and is also a necessary and fundamental
prerequisite for equality, development and peace
Beijing platform for Action.(UN Fourth Conference on Women)
INTRODUCTION
" Statement 11
Sex ratio of selected countries
Sl. No
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Country
2
World
China
India
U.S.A.
Indonesia
Brazil
Pakistan
Russian Fed.
Bangladesh
Japan
Nigeria
2001
2
986
944
933
1,029
1,004
1,025
938
1,140
958
1,041
1,016
2011
3
984
926
940
1,025
988
1,042
943
1,167
978
1,055
987
# Source
1.
2.
Figure 17
Trends of sex ratio in ten most populous countries: 2001 - 2011
1200
1167
1150
1100
1055
1042
1050
1000
1025
987
988
984
978
926
937
943
950
900
2001
2011
850
World
China
India
USA
Indonesia
Brazil
Pakistan
Japan
Nigeria
COUNTRIES
2001
933
944
938
958
1010
1005
930
919
1011
2011
940
926
943
978
1034
1014
931
897
1048
The sex ratio in India has been historically negative or in other words,
unfavourable to females. A look at the Figure 18 reveals that in the preindependence period, the sex ratio declined consistently up to 1951 when it
rose marginally (Statement-12). In the post independence period, the trend
continued and the sex ratio slipped down for two consecutive decades after
1951 to reach 930 in 1971. During 1961-71 a steep fall of 11 points was seen in
the sex ratio.
Figure 18
Sex ratio in India: 1901-2011
980
Sex Ratio (Females per
1000 Males)
972
970
964
960
955
950
941
940
940
934
930
933
930
927
920
910
22011
22001
11991
11981
11971
11961
11951
11941
11931
11921
11911
900
Census Years
80
946
945
11901
950
" Statement 12
Sex ratio, India: 1901-2011
Census Year
1
1901
1911
1921
1931
1941
1951
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
2011
Sex ratio
(Females per 1,000 males)
2
972
964
955
950
945
946
941
930
934
927
933
940
After 1971 Census , trends were not consistent, showing increase in one decade
and decline in the next. However, it was hovering around 930.The sex ratio as
per provisional results is the highest since 1971 and a shade below the level of
1961.
! Map 10
Sex Ratio, 2001 (States/Union Territories)
INDIA
Jammu & Kashmir
892
Himachal Pradesh
968
Punjab
876
Chandigarh
777
Uttarakhand
962
Haryana
NCT of Delhi
861
821
Uttar Pradesh
898
Rajasthan
921
Chhattisgarh
989
Maharashtra
922
Andhra Pradesh
978
Meghalaya
972
Jharkhand
941
Madhya Pradesh
919
ARABIAN SEA
Goa
961
Assam
935
Bihar
919
Gujarat
920
Arunachal Pradesh
893
Sikkim
875
West Bengal
934
Tripura
948
Manipur
974
Mizoram
935
Orissa
972
(P)
BAY OF BENGAL
Karnataka
965
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
846
(P)
Lakshadweep
948
Kerala
1058
Tamil Nadu
987
(P)Puducherry
1001
(P)
Nagaland
900
Narcondam I.
(India)
Barren I.
(India)
925
950
975
100 50
INDIAN OCEAN
82
500
Kilometres
Indira Point
! Map 11
Sex Ratio, 2011 (States/Union Territories)
INDIA
Jammu & Kashmir
883
Himachal Pradesh
974
Punjab
893
Chandigarh
818
Uttarakhand
963
Haryana
NCT of Delhi
877
866
Uttar Pradesh
908
Rajasthan
926
Gujarat
918
Meghalaya
986
Jharkhand
947
Chhattisgarh
991
Maharashtra
925
Andhra Pradesh
992
Goa
968
Assam
954
Bihar
916
Madhya Pradesh
930
ARABIAN SEA
Arunachal Pradesh
920
Sikkim
889
West Bengal
947
Tripura
961
Manipur
987
Mizoram
975
Orissa
978
(P)
BAY OF BENGAL
Karnataka
968
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
878
(P)
Lakshadweep
946
Kerala
1084
Tamil Nadu
995
(P)Puducherry
1038
(P)
Nagaland
931
Narcondam I.
(India)
Barren I.
(India)
925
950
975
100 50
INDIAN OCEAN
500
Kilometres
Indira Point
Figure 19
Sex ratio trends in some of the major States: 1951-2011
Assam
Andhra Pradesh
1060
1060
1010
960
910
860
810
1951
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
1010
960
910
860
810
2011
1951
Census Year
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
Bihar
Gujarat
1060
1060
2011
Census Year
1010
960
910
860
1010
960
910
860
810
1951
810
1951
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
2011
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
2011
Census Year
Census Year
Haryana
Jharkhand
1060
1060
1010
960
910
860
810
1951
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
1010
960
910
860
810
2011
1951
Census Year
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
2011
Census Year
Kerala
Karnataka
1060
1060
1010
960
910
860
810
1951
1961
Census Year
84
1971
1981
1991
2001
2011
1010
960
910
860
810
1951
1961
Census Years
1971
1981
1991
2001
2011
Figure 19
Sex ratio trends in some of the major States: 1951-2011
Maharashtra
Madhya Pradesh
1060
1060
1010
960
910
860
810
1951
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
1010
960
910
860
810
2011
1951
Census Year
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
Punjab
1060
1010
1010
Orissa
1060
960
910
860
810
1951
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
960
910
860
810
1951
2011
1961
1971
1981
1991
2011
Tamil Nadu
Rajasthan
1060
1060
2001
Census Year
Census Year
1010
960
910
860
810
1951
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
1010
960
910
860
810
1951
2011
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
2011
Census Year
Census Year
Uttar Pradesh
West Bengal
1060
1060
2011
Census Year
1010
960
910
860
810
1010
960
910
860
810
1951
1951
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
2011
2011
Census Year
Census Year
Table 11 gives the trends in sex ratio since 1901 for all the States and Union
Territories. The trends in sex ratio for the post independence period from
1951 -2011 for some of the major States are also depicted in Figure 19 as line
graphs.
The Table reveals that in 1951, there were as many as eleven States and Union
Territories that had sex ratio of more than unity or above 1000. This number
declined to nine in 1961, three in 1971 and two in 1981 and one in 1991. In
2001, the State of Kerala and the Union Territory of Puducherry reported
above unity sex ratio. Both these States have not only retained their status but
have also shown considerable increase in 2011. Besides these two, the number
of States and Union Territories registering an upward trend has risen from 24
in 2001 to 29 in 2011. The increase ranged from one point in Uttarakhand to
fourty five points in the highly urbanised National Capital Territory of Delhi.
In 18 States and Union Territories, the increase has been over ten points during
2001-2011.
Among the major States, Bihar, Jammu Kashmir and Gujarat have experienced
a fall in the sex ratio. The decline ranged from 2 points in Gujarat to 9 points
in Jammu & Kashmir. Other smaller Union Territories showing steep decline
are Dadar & Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. Perceptible increase has been
observed in the major States such as Uttar Pradesh,Rajasthan, Jharkhand,
Orissa, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal,
Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Punjab and all the States located in the
North East.
A point to be noted is that the States having historically low sex ratio such as
Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Chandigarh have shown appreciable increase in
the sex ratio in Census 2011. Majority of the States identified as gender critical
for special attention and intervention as part of the Census 2011 have shown
increasing trend in the sex ratio as per the provisional results.
Trends in sex ratio in States and UTs: 2001-2011
The patterns in sex ratio among the States and Union Territories are distinct.
The top three States recording the highest value of overall sex ratio are
neighbours located in the southern part of India namely Kerala (1084), Tamil
Nadu (995), and Andhra Pradesh (992). Among the UTs, the top three are
Puducherry (1038), Lakshadweep (946) and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands
(878). Figure 20 presents sex ratio in the States and Union Territories at the
2011 Census.
The lowest sex ratio among the States has been recorded in Haryana (877),
Jammu & Kashmir (883) and Sikkim (889). Among the UTs the lowest sex
ratio has been returned in Daman & Diu (618), Dadra & Nagar Haveli (775)
and Chandigarh (818).
Only two major States, Bihar and Jammu & Kashmir have shown decline in the
sex ratio. The other Union Territories registering decline in overall sex ratio
include Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu and Lakshadweep. Maps
10 and 11 depict patterns of sex ratio in different States and Union Territories
during 2001 and 2011 respectively.
Statement 13 provides recent trends of sex ratio of the total population, sex
ratio in the age group 0-6 years and sex ratio of population aged 7 years and
above for 2001 and 2011 for all the States and Union Territories.
86
Figure 20
Sex ratio in States and Union Territories: 2011
Arunachal Pradesh
Sikkim
Bihar
Uttar Pradesh
Rajasthan
NCT of Delhi
Haryana
Uttarakhand
Chandigarh
Punjab
Himachal Pradesh
Jammu & Kashmir
600
650
700
750
800
850
900
950
1000
1050
1100
! Statement 13
Sex ratio of total population and child population in the age group 0-6 and 7+ years:
2001-2011
State/
UT Code
1
01
02
03
04
05
India/States/Union Territory #
2
INDIA
Jammu & Kashmir
Himachal Pradesh
Punjab
Chandigarh #
Uttarakhand
Haryana
2001
3
933
892
968
876
777
962
2011
4
940
883
974
8 93
818
963
2001
5
927
941
896
798
845
908
2011
6
914
859
906
846
867
886
2001
7
934
884
980
888
767
973
2011
8
944
887
983
899
812
975
8 77
866
926
9 08
916
8 19
868
909
916
9 42
830
866
883
899
9 33
869
813
923
894
914
885
866
935
910
912
06
07
08
09
10
NCT of Delhi
Rajasthan
Uttar Pradesh
Bihar
861
821
921
898
9 19
11
12
13
14
15
Sikkim
Arunachal Pradesh
Nagaland
Manipur
Mizoram
8 75
893
900
974
935
889
920
931
987
975
963
964
964
957
964
9 44
960
944
934
971
861
878
890
977
9 30
883
9 13
929
9 95
976
16
17
18
19
20
Tripura
Meghalaya
Assam
West Bengal
Jharkhand
948
972
9 35
934
941
961
9 86
954
947
947
966
973
9 65
960
965
953
970
9 57
950
943
945
971
929
92 9
935
962
989
953
946
948
21
22
23
24
25
Orissa
Chhattisgarh
Madhya Pradesh
Gujarat
Daman & Diu #
972
98 9
919
920
710
978
9 91
930
918
618
953
975
932
883
926
934
964
912
886
909
976
992
916
92 7
682
985
995
93 3
923
589
26
27
28
29
30
812
922
978
965
961
775
925
9 92
968
968
979
913
961
946
938
924
883
943
943
920
779
924
981
968
9 64
752
931
997
9 71
973
31
32
33
34
35
Lakshadweep #
Kerala
Tamil Nadu
948
1058
987
1001
846
946
1084
995
1038
878
959
960
942
967
957
908
959
946
965
966
946
1,072
9 93
1,006
831
951
1,099
1,000
1,047
868
Puducherry #
Andaman & Nicobar Islands #
88
2001
Percentage of
population to
total population, 2001
2011
1
880 & below
881-915
916-950
951-985
986 & above
2
8
4
11
8
4
3
5.98
17.44
47.18
18.12
11.28
4
6
4
10
8
7
Percentage of
population to
total population, 2011
5
3.65
19.87
45.08
13.01
18.4
1
Below National average
Above National average
Number of
States /
Union
Territories
2001
Percentage of
population to total
population 2001
Number of
States /
Union
Territories
2011
Percentage of
population to total
population 2011
3
57.19
42.81
4
17
18
5
58.31
41.69
2
17
18
While the overall sex ratio presents encouraging trends across the country
encompassing 29 States and Union Territories, the same is not true in the
case of the girl child in the age group 0-6 years. Statement-16 and Figure-21
presents the sex ratio of the total population and the child population (0-6
years) from 1961 to 2001.
! Statement 16
Sex ratio of total population and child population in the age group 0-6: 1961-2011
Year
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
2011
980
976
970
964
962
960
950
945
941
940
940
933
934
930
927
927
930
920
914
910
900
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
2011
Census Years
Figure-21 clearly brings out the fact that after 1991 there has been consistent
rise in overall sex ratio. On the other hand, the fall in child sex ratio has been
unabated since 1961. As per the provisional population totals of Census 2011,
it has declined to reach an all time low of 914.
The pattern of child sex ratio (0-6 years) among the States/UTs in 2011 is
provided in Statement 13. The top three States recording the highest value of
child sex ratio in the age group 0-6 years are Mizoram (971), Meghalaya (970)
and Chhattisgarh (964). Among the UTs, the top three positions are held by
Andaman & Nicobar Islands (966), Puducherry (965) and Dadra & Nagar
Haveli (924).
90
The lowest child sex ratio (0-6 years) among the States have been observed
in the States of Haryana (830), Punjab (846) and Jammu and Kashmir (859)
while among the UTs, Delhi (866), Chandigarh (867) and Lakshadweep (908)
occupy the bottom position.
A glance at the trend will show that in Census 2011, child sex ratio (0-6 years)
has registered an increasing trend only in six States and two UTs. What gives
some cause for cheer is the fact that the States where the child sex ratio had
dropped alarmingly in Census 2001 have now shown a slight improvement.
This increase is substantial in Punjab (789 to 846-57 points), Haryana (819 to
830- 11 points), Himachal Pradesh (896 to 906- 10 points), Chandigarh (845 to
867- 22 points), Gujarat (883 to 886- 3 points) and Tamil Nadu (942 to 946- 4
points). In addition, Mizoram (964 to 971-7 points) and Andaman & Nicobar
Island (957 to 966- 9 points) have also shown increasing trend in the child sex
ratio during 2001 -2011.
At the same time, situation in other States/UTs has been disconcerting. The
child sex ratio (0-6 years) has declined in 27 States and Union Territories.
Sharp fall in the range of 22 to 82 points have been reported in child sex ratios
in Jammu & Kashmir (82), Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Lakshadweep, Maharashtra,
Rajasthan, Manipur, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Nagaland
during 2001-2011. It is to be noticed that even North Eastern States like
Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh have shown a declining trend. Maps 12 and 13
depict child sex ratio in the age group 0-6 years for 2001 and 2011 and show
the pattern of decline in 2011.
Statement-17 gives the distribution of States and UTs by ranges of sex ratio of
child population in the age group 0-6 years and their relative share in these
ranges in terms of percentage of population to total population of the country
for 2001 and 2011. It may be discerned from the above Statement that the
number of States and UTs with sex ratio in the age group 0-6 years of 951 and
above, has reduced to half from eighteen to nine in 2011 with corresponding
decline in the share of population from 28 percent to only 8.12 percent.
The number of States and UTs with child sex ratio 0-6 years below 915 has
increased from nine in 2001 to fourteen in 2011. The share of population in
this category has doubled.
! Statement 17
Distribution of States/Union Territories by range of sex ratio of child population in the
age group 0-6 years: 2001-2011
Sex ratio
Number of States/
Union Territories
2001
Percentage of
population to
total population
2001
1
880 & below
881-915
916-950
951-985
986 & above
2
4
5
8
18
0
3
5.27
20.76
45.95
28.02
0
Number of States/
Union Territories
2011
4
5
9
12
9
0
Percentage of
population to
total population
2011
5
6.51
46.13
39.2
8.16
0
# Map 12
Child Sex Ratio in Age Group 0-6, 2001 (States/Union Territories)
INDIA
Jammu & Kashmir
941
Himachal Pradesh
896
Punjab
798
Chandigarh
845
Uttarakhand
908
Haryana
NCT of Delhi
819
868
Uttar Pradesh
916
Rajasthan
909
Chhattisgarh
975
Maharashtra
913
Andhra Pradesh
961
Meghalaya
973
Jharkhand
965
Madhya Pradesh
932
ARABIAN SEA
Goa
938
Assam
965
Bihar
942
Gujarat
883
Arunachal Pradesh
964
Sikkim
963
West Bengal
960
Tripura
966
Manipur
957
Mizoram
964
Orissa
953
(P)
BAY OF BENGAL
Karnataka
946
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
957
(P)
Lakshadweep
959
Kerala
960
Tamil Nadu
942
(P)Puducherry
967
(P)
Nagaland
964
Narcondam I.
(India)
Barren I.
(India)
875
900
950
INDIAN OCEAN
92
500
Kilometres
Indira Point
# Map 13
Child Sex Ratio in Age Group 0-6, 2011 (States/Union Territories)
INDIA
Jammu & Kashmir
859
Himachal Pradesh
906
Punjab
846
Chandigarh
867
Uttarakhand
Haryana
830
886
NCT of Delhi
866
Uttar Pradesh
899
Rajasthan
883
Chhattisgarh
964
Maharashtra
883
Andhra Pradesh
943
Meghalaya
970
Jharkhand
943
Madhya Pradesh
912
ARABIAN SEA
Goa
920
Assam
957
Bihar
933
Gujarat
886
Arunachal Pradesh
960
Sikkim
944
West Bengal
950
Tripura
953
Manipur
934
Mizoram
971
Orissa
934
(P)
BAY OF BENGAL
Karnataka
943
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
966
(P)
Lakshadweep
908
Kerala
959
Tamil Nadu
946
(P)Puducherry
965
(P)
Nagaland
944
Narcondam I.
(India)
Barren I.
(India)
875
900
950
INDIAN OCEAN
500
Kilometres
Indira Point
The sex ratio of population of age 7 years and above during 2001 and 2011
Censuses have been shown in the Statement- 13. It has increased from 942
in 2001 to 944 in 2011 at the National level. This increase is also noted in 23
States/UTs. However 8 States have shown slight decline as compared to 2001.
In 4 States/UTs this ratio has remained constant.
Kerala (1099), Tamil Nadu(1000) and Andhra Pradesh (997) have recorded the
highest sex ratio, while Punjab (899), Jammu & Kashmir (887) and Haryana
(885) are at the bottom in the age group 7+ years.
Statement-18 provides the distribution of States and UTs by the ranges of sex
ratio of population in the age group of 7+ years for 2001 and 2011 and their
share of population to total population.
It may be seen from the Statement that the number of States and UTs and their
corresponding share of population has increased significantly in the category
with sex ratio 986 and above. On the other hand, there has been a decline
in the number and proportion of population in the 916-950 category. The
Statement 18
Distribution of States/Union Territories by range of sex ratio of population 7 years and
above: 2001 and 2011
Distribution of States/Union Territories by range of sex ratio of population aged 7+ : 2001 and 2011
Sex ratio
Number of States/
Percentage of population
Number of States/
Percentage of population
Union Territories
to total population 2001
Union Territories
to total population 2011
2001
2011
1
880 & below
881-915
916-950
951-985
986 & above
94
2
8
5
10
8
4
3
3.75
26.86
39.11
18.57
11.72
4
5
7
7
9
7
5
1.58
29.88
36.45
13.15
18.94
number and share of States and UTs having sex ratio 915 and below has not
shown perceptible decline.
SEX RATIO IN THE EMPOWERED ACTION GROUP (EAG) STATES
It is heartening to note that the overall sex ratio has shown a consistent
increase in both EAG as well as non EAG States in the last three decades.
However, the disheartening fact is that the gap between EAG and non EAG
States has increased slightly during 2001-2011. Almost similar trends have
been observed in the category of seven plus population as illustrated in Figures
22 and 23.
Figure 24 exhibits trends of child sex ratio (0-6 years) in EAG and non EAG
States. It is observed that in 1991, EAG States had lower value of child sex
ratio as compared to non EAG States. This trend has reversed during 2001.
! Figure 22
Sex ratio in India, EAG and non EAG States: 1991-2011
960
952
950
943
942
940
940
933
927
927
930
921
Females per 1000 Males
920
907
910
900
EAG States
890
Non EAG
880
India
1991
2001
2011
Census Years
! Figure 23
Sex ratio in the 7+ age group in India, EAG and non EAG States: 1991-2011
970
957
960
946
950
944
941
940
934
929
930
923
919
920
910
899
900
890
880
EAG States
Non EAG States
India
870
860
1991
2001
2011
Census Years
PROVISIONAL POPULATION TOTALS INDIA 95
In the period 1991-2011, while there has been a fall of 28 points in the EAG
States, the same has been to the tune of 34 points in non EAG States. In the last
decade alone, the decline in EAG States has been 17 points while in the non
EAG States the fall has been to the tune of 10 points. This is indeed a matter of
grave concern.
! Figure 24
Child Sex ratio in the age group 0-6 years in India, EAG and non EAG States: 1991-2011
960
949
950
945
941
940
930
Females per 1000 males
930
925
927
920
915
913
914
910
EAG States
Non EAG States
India
900
890
1991
2001
2011
Census Years
The decline in the sex ratio in the age group 0-6 years is an extremely
distressing trend. The writing was clearly on the wall during the last Census
itself. The last decade has seen slight improvements in Haryana, Punjab,
Chandigarh, Tamil Nadu, Himachal, Gujarat, Mizoram and Andaman &
Nicobar Islands where there has been an increase in the sex ratio of the 0-6
year population. In all the remaining 27 States/UTs, the ratio has declined. The
decline ranges from nominal to alarming levels.
The overall sex ratio has shown an upward trend in 29 States/UTs. This is a
positive sign and is indicative of an improvement in the status of women in
the country. The improved trends in female literacy and the narrowing gender
gap in the literacy rate, discussed later on in this Report corroborates this in
substantial measure. Detailed analysis of trends would however be required for
more meaningful conclusions.
96
1
INTRODUCTORY NOTE
Figures
1
Introductory Note
Census 2011marks a milestone in the history of Census taking in the country.
It has come at a time when India is perhaps at an inflexion point in history,
when it sheds the legacy of the past and emerges among the comity of Nations
as a strong, selfreliant and modern Nation. The basic benchmark statistics on
the state of human resources, demography, culture and economic structure at
this crucial juncture of the countrys history would be vital to guide and shape
the future course of the Nation.
# Notes
1.
J. Chartres Molony,
Superintendent of Census,
Madras, 1911: The Village
Officer, source of all Indian
information, is the recorder of
his village, and it well may be
that amid the toils of keeping
accounts and collecting
mamuls, he pays scant heed
to what he and his friends
consider the idle curiosity of an
eccentric sirkar.
Introductory Note
# Notes
2.
3.
Dr. W.R.Cornish,
Superintendent of Census
Operations, Madras, 1871:
The estimates of population
of Madras previous to 1867
had been so various and the
direct censuses of 1822 and
1863 were so untrustworthy
that it had been found
utterly impossible to arrive
at any satisfactory conclusion
as to the actual number of
people....
4.
HISTORY
The earliest references of Census taking in India can be traced back to the
Mauryan period in Kautilayas Arthashastra (321-296 BC) and later during
the Mughal period in the writings of Abul Fazl (1595-96) in the Ain-e-Akbari.
Records have it that in 1687, during the Governorship of Elihu Yale in Madras
Presidency, the King of England desired that a count of the inhabitants of Fort
St George be taken. This however was not followed up until 1872. A count was
also taken up in 1853 in the North Western Frontier, which was followed by
a series of Census like enumerations. However these were not censuses but
simple head counts (Guilmoto)2 and were so evidently untrustworthy that it
had long been found utterly impossible to arrive at any satisfactory conclusion
(Cornish)3 . Another description of the counts prior to 1871 describes them
as at their best represent only informed guesswork and at their worst wildest
conjecture (Ranson)4 A systematic and modern population Census, in its
present scientific form was conducted non synchronously between 1865 and
1872 in different parts of the country. This effort culminating in 1872 has been
popularly labelled as the first population Census of India (the first synchronous
Census in India was however conducted in 1881).
Rig Veda:
Arthashastra:
Ain-e-Akbari:
1st systematic census
conducted all over India
(non synchronous):
First Synchronous Census
conducted all over India:
First Census of
Independent India:
2011 Census:
800-600 BC
321-296 BC
1595-96
1865-1872
1881
1951
the 15th since 1872, 7th
since Independence
An unbroken chain of Censuses since then, gives the Indian Census a unique
historical legacy unparalleled in the world. Census 2011 is the fifteenth Census
in this continuous series from 1872 and the seventh since Independence.
METHODOLOGY
1872
21st February
de facto (Non-Synchronous)
1881
17th February
de facto (Synchronous)
1891
26th February
de facto (Synchronous)
1901
1st March
de facto (Synchronous)
1911
10st March
de facto (Synchronous)
1921
18th March
de facto (Synchronous)
1931
26th February
de facto (Synchronous)
1941
1st March
1951
1st March
1961
1st March
1971
1st April
1981
1st March
1991
1st March
2001
1st March
2011
1st March
Introductory Note
ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
In India, the population Census is a Union Subject (Article 246) and is listed
at serial number 69 of the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. The Census
Act, 1948 forms the legal basis for the conduct of Censuses in independent
India. Although the Census Act is an instrument of Central Legislation, in
the scheme of its execution the State Governments provide the administrative
support for the actual conduct of the Census.
The Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India is an
attached office under the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Government of
India. Its main responsibility is to conceive, plan and implement Census
taking in the country. The organization is headed by the Registrar General
and Census Commissioner, India. There are field offices in all the States and
Union Territories (except the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and
the Union Territory of Daman and Diu, which are attached to the office at
Gujarat). The field officers are headed by the Directors of Census Operations,
who are responsible for the conduct of Census in their respective jurisdictions.
The list of the Directors of Census Operations of all the States/Union
Territories along with their date of joining is given at Annexure -I
Charge Officers
Tehsildars/Mamlatdars
Enumerators/Supervisors
State Co-ordinators
Number of Administrative
Units in Census 2011
States/UTs
35
Districts
640
Sub-Districts
5,924
Towns
7,936
Introductory Note
CARTOGRAPHY
Satellite imagery of a Capital city and the digital map prepared from it
An added feature in Census 2011 was that print-outs of maps showing the
boundary of every Village/Town were provided to the Charge Officers to mark
the position of Enumeration Blocks on these. This was aimed at reducing the
chance of any omission or duplication of areas.
CONSULTATION WITH STAKEHOLDERS
As part of the Census preparations, the first Data Users Conference was held
in April 2008. In this Conference, consultations were held with all stakeholders
comprising representatives of various Ministries of Government of India, State
Governments, National and International voluntary organisations, Population
Research Centres, Statistical Institutions, Universities, eminent demographers
and social scientists. Based on the deliberations of the Conference, a draft
Questionnaire was developed and placed for discussion before the Technical
Advisory Committee (TAC).
The Census Questionnaire was piloted and pre-Tested in the field in all
States and Union Territories from 28th June 2009 to 17th August 2009. The
Notification to this effect was published in the Gazette of India on 8th April
2009.
The pre-Test was conducted as a full scale exercise, a virtual rehearsal of the
Census. It was conducted in 53 rural and 32 urban Charges. The rural charges
were chosen at the rate of two in bigger and one in smaller States/UTs except
A&N Islands. It included 201 Villages where 550 Houselisting Blocks were
formed. This constituted 60,327 Buildings in which 81,471 Census Houses and
59,047 Households were enumerated.
In urban areas, 32 Charges (one in each State/UT except Daman & Diu, Dadra
& Nagar Haveli and Lakshadweep), comprising 32 Wards/ part-Wards were
covered. In all 554 Houselisting Blocks were carved out in urban areas which
consisted of 58,366 Buildings, 1,19,955 Census Houses and 67,279 Households.
The results and the field experiences of the pre-Test were discussed in a
Conference of the Directors of Census Operations and a draft Questionnaire
was finalised for the consideration of the Technical Advisory Committee.
NOTIFICATIONS REGARDING CONDUCT OF CENSUS OF INDIA 2011
The Census of India is conducted under the provisions of the Census Act 1948
and the Census Rules, 1990. The statute requires the Notification of various
processes under provisions of the above Act and Rules. Accordingly, various
processes have been duly notified in the Gazette of India after following the
processes laid down. The various Notifications are listed below:
t The Notification regarding the intention of the Government of India to
conduct a Census of the population of India in 2011 was published in the
Gazette of India on 20th February 2009.
t In the same Notification, the Reference Date was also notified as 00.00
hours of the first day of March 2011 (except for the snow-bound areas of
Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand). In the snowbound areas of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand the
Reference Date was notified as 00.00 hours of the first day of October 2010.
t The Notification regarding the non synchronous areas (snow-bound) in
Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand was published in
the Gazette of India on 20th February 2009.
t The Notification regarding the conduct of Houselisting and Housing
Census from 1st April 2010 to 30th September 2010 in different States and
Union Territories was published in the Gazette of India on
25th February 2010.
Introductory Note
The TAC considered the draft Questionnaire and keeping in view the demands
of the data users and the available resources within the organization and the
States, made valuable suggestions for improving its form and content.
The final Questionnaire was then put up for the consideration of the
Government of India. The Government of India gave its assent to the two
Questionnaires after which the Questions to be asked in the Houselisting and
Housing Census and Population Enumeration which were duly published in
the Gazette of India.
In 2001, two Schedules one for Houselisting and another for Population
Enumeration were canvassed. The same approach has been followed in Census
2011.
In all 35 Questions were canvassed in the Houselisting and Housing
Census Schedule and 29 Questions in the Household Schedule (Population
Enumeration).
The final Questionnaires developed and canvassed for the Census 2011- the
Houselisting and Housing Census Schedule and the Household Schedule are
placed at Annexure-III
PRINTING
A feature that makes the Indian Census particularly complex is that the
Schedules are canvassed in 16 languages and the Instruction Manuals are
developed in 18 languages.
The requirement is also huge - 5.4 million Instruction Manuals and 340
million Census Schedules. To add to the complexity, the Schedules had to be
printed on special grade paper, the specifications for which were evolved in
India for the first time in consultation with experts in scanning technology
and paper technologists. The services of the National Institute of Design,
Ahmedabad were utilized to upgrade the quality and aesthetics
of the Schedule. Unique features that make it stand out are Bar
Codes in each Schedule, Unique Form Numbers, Pre Printing
of certain Location Particulars, Uniform quality of printing and
colour drop-out facility. This required printing in high end Presses
having facility of variable printing and very high production
volumes. That the entire quantity of material has been printed
within the stringent timelines and with strict adherence to quality
is a feat in itself. Approximately 12,000 Metric Tonnes of paper of
various grades have been procured for this purpose. The result is
that the Indian Census Schedules are comparable with the best
in class internationally.
LOGISTICS
The task of making available all the materials required for conducting the
Census Enumerators Kits, Instruction Manuals and other training materials,
Census Schedules in the right quantity and in the right language to the Charge
Officers (approximately 17, 000 in number) and the reverse collection of
filled in Schedules and other material, as can well be imagined is a logistical
nightmare. Adding to the complexity is the fact that each Charge may use
material in several languages. The first task was therefore to prepare an
accurate database of Charge-wise requirement of materials. The next task was
to pack the materials as per the database, address each package correctly and
Printing
Material from high end Presses
Material from Government/Private Presses
Packing
As per database
Packing and Address Labelling
Despatch
Despatched to more than 17,000 locations
Return Collection
Logistics: A successful partnership with India Post
have them shipped out to each location. The printing was done at locations
spread all over the country with varying levels of efficiency, which added
to the challenge. It is a matter of satisfaction that the entire task of printing
and packing of materials was accomplished in time and with a fair degree of
efficiency.
As regards the transportation of materials, a pioneering initiative of using the
India Post for handling the logistics was undertaken. A special Logistics Post
arrangement was put in place by India Post for the Census 2011. Though there
were a few operational problems, the precision with which the entire logistics
operation was accomplished within a very short period of time, is remarkable.
TRAINING
Introductory Note
Sachin Tendulkar, Celebrated Cricketer, helping to propagate the message on Census 2011.
PUBLICITY
All modes of Publicity - Mass media, Public relations, Outreach activities and
Digital media have been used to spread awareness and enlist the cooperation of
all stakeholders. A scientific media plan was designed by a professional agency
that also created the media content in both the phases of the Census. While
the general theme was that of including everybody without omission, special
emphasis was laid on vulnerable groups like women, elderly, disabled, infants
12
Introductory Note
An innovative Logo was adopted for Census 2011. The interpretation of the
Logo is given in the Box above. The Logo was designed by Shri Padarabinda
Rath, an employee of the Census organisation and was highly appreciated for
its concept and design.
GENDER SENSITIZATION
Gender disaggregated data is the basis for gender sensitive policy formulation
and programme planning. The need for gender statistics in formulating
policies and programmes can hardly be over-emphasized.
Conceptually, information collected at the Census is gender neutral
and compiled and tabulated for both men and women separately. The
Questionnaire and Instruction Manual for collection of information in the
field have been carefully designed to avoid any bias on the basis of gender. The
training of Census functionaries also focused on this aspect of neutrality.
With a view to review the past experience and fine-tune the strategies for
Census 2011, a National Workshop on Gender Mainstreaming was held on
30th July 2010. The workshop looked at data sets on key gender indicators
and deliberated on all sensitive issues, which could affect accurate netting
of data in the field due to any prevailing cultural or other bias, shared local
concerns of States / UTs and proposed a strategy to improve gender statistics
in Census 2011. This was followed by a number of group workshops in which
Directorate of Census Operations and UN agencies supporting this initiative
participated. Gender mainstreaming activities of Census 2011 encompassing
gender responsive training and publicity is an outcome of detailed data analysis
and subsequent deliberations and consultative processes involving different
stakeholders.
Gender sensitivity was integrated into the entire process of Census taking. The
first and foremost aim of Census 2011 has been to ensure complete coverage
without omission or duplication. In addition to the basic count, special efforts
have been made to accurately net the socio-cultural, demographic and economic
characteristics, which inter-alia would include correct netting of head of the
PROVISIONAL POPULATION TOTALS INDIA 13
To create awareness among the general masses about gender issues and to
facilitate correct reporting of information, a well conceived publicity plan was
launched with a female enumerator as the mascot of the Census. The new Census
Logo as explained earlier also emphasizes the pivotal role of women. Special
publicity kits, Census in Schools kit, and other material also focused on this vital
14
Introductory Note
issue. The print and audio visual publicity material also has special gender
themes on inclusion and female work. The outreach programmes organized by
the Directorates had gender as the main area of focus. The use of social digital
media such as Facebook and Twitter were also part of this strategy of inclusion.
The ultimate aim has been to create an environment that will sensitize both
Enumerators as well as respondents.
CENSUS HELPLINE
Help desks and help lines had been introduced in the last Census. The same
was continued in this Census also. The help desks were established at the
charge level and were manned by Master Trainers. In addition, the mobile
phone numbers of certain experts from the Directorates were given to the
Master Trainers so that they could get clarifications then and there. A Toll
Free Number was activated and a Call Centre established at which calls
could be received from the Enumerators and Supervisors. Though the Call
Centre personnel were trained, most calls were routed to experts at each
Directorate to answer on a real time basis. Besides, a section Frequently Asked
Questions was opened in the Census website which was accessed by officials
and Enumerators alike. In a few Directorates, elaborate training videos were
produced and given to each Enumerator.
INITIATIVES
built up during these visits with the State and District level officers paid
rich dividends.
6. Press Conferences: The Honble Union Home Minister and the Union
Home Secretary held exclusive Press Conferences during both phases
of the Census. This was also followed up with a series of such Press
Conferences by the Census Commissioner, India and the Directors of
Census. A specially developed Media Kit also served to enhance public
awareness.
7. Conference of the Directors of Census Operations: In all, eight
Conferences of Directorates of Census Operations were held in connection
with the Census 2011.
8. Conference of Military and Para Military Organisations: A Conference of
nodal officers of Military and Para Military Organisations was conducted
at New Delhi with the active involvement of the Ministry of Defence and
the Ministry of Home Affairs. Representatives of the Army, Navy, Air
Force, Coast Guard and all the Para Military Organisations participated.
Similar meetings were held in all Directorates. This sensitisation went a
long way in enlisting the participation of these organisations in the Census.
9. Use of Mobile Phones: A database of mobile phone numbers was created at
various levels and effectively used. The Charge Registers had the Telephone
numbers of all functionaries, which was the most effective medium
of communication used in Census 2011. Instructions, complaints and
clarifications were all done through this medium.
10. Short Mail Service (SMS): Applications like way to SMS, bulk mail
service was used to communicate instructions to field functionaries as well
as receive and clarify doubts from field functionaries.
11. Call Centre: A toll free number was operated through both phases of
Census and the calls were handled by a professional Call Centre. The
Enumerators could ask queries which were routed to Census experts who
clarified the same. The Centres also handled public complaints.
12. Web Site: The Census website, besides other sections, hosted all the
Instruction Manuals, Circulars and Frequently Asked Questions. This
source was also accessed by the Enumerators as well as the public at
large. Similar websites at the Directorate level were used for passing on
instructions as well as for monitoring progress.
13. Audio Visual Media: Innovative training CDs were prepared by several
Directorates and distributed to the field functionaries. Some also broadcast
these over Educational TV Channels and used it as a training medium.
14. Television Serials: An innovative method was the use of a popular
Television Serial, like Tarak Mehta Ka Ultah Chashma to communicate
message of Census 2011. This had a wide reach and great appeal.
15. Folk Arts: A few Directorates used the medium of local folk arts to
communicate messages. This unique approach opened doors especially in
remote tribal pockets and made Census taking easier.
16. Community Volunteers: This was a unique initiative in some North
Eastern States where Civil Society Organisations joined hands with the
Directorates to not only spread awareness but actually take part in the
16
Introductory Note
conduct of the Census. This has had a significant impact in these States and
has greatly enhanced the participation of the general people in the Census.
17. Partnership with Non Governmental Organisations: Disability, Gender and
Homeless, having been identified as areas requiring special focus, efforts
were made in all Directorates to identify and work with credible Non
Governmental Organisations. The participation ranged from awareness
building to extensive involvement in training and even actual participation
in the conduct of field operations. The results have been quite encouraging.
18. Media Plan: Scientific media and communication plans were prepared
during both phases of the Census. This was done by engaging professional
media consultants. The media campaign has been appreciated for its
content, coverage and quality.
19. Republic Day Tableaus: Several States took out Tableaus on Census
2011 on the occasion of Republic day. This was very helpful in spreading
awareness.
20. Car Rallies: Car Rallies were organised in several States. In Madhya
Pradesh, the speciality was that the navigators of the Cars were persons
with seeing disability.
21. Tricycle Rally: A tricycle rally was also organised in Delhi for the disabled.
CONDUCT OF CENSUS 2011
New Delhi, West Bengal, Assam, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Goa, Meghalaya
7th April
15th April
21st April
26th April
1st May
7th May
Madhya Pradesh
15th May
1st June
15th June
Jharkhand
With the exception of Chhattisgarh and West Bengal, where extension of time
had to be given on account of certain local problems, the dates were adhered to
in all States/UTs. Similarly, all States/UTs reported complete coverage except
for a few villages in the abovementioned States.
CHANGES IN THE HOUSELISTING AND HOUSING CENSUS SCHEDULE
18
Census 2001
Code
Census 2011
Code
Grass/thatch/bamboo
Grass/thatch/bamboo
Plastic/polythene
Plastic/polythene
Mud/unburnt brick
Wood
Wood
GI/metal/asbestos
sheets
Burnt Brick
Stone
GI/metal/asbestos
sheets
Concrete
Burnt Brick
Any Other
Concrete
Any Other
Introductory Note
(ii) Type of roof: The Codes for material of roof have been modified by
distinguishing hand-made tiles from machine made-tiles. The codes used in
Census 2011 compared to the Census 2001 are given below:
Census 2001
Code
Census 2011
Code
Grass/thatch/bamboo/wood/mud etc.
Grass/thatch/bamboo/wood/mud etc.
Plastic/polythene
Plastic/polythene
Tiles
Slate
Burnt brick
GI/metal/asbestos
sheets
Stone
Brick
Slate
Stone
GI/metal/asbestos
sheets
Concrete
Concrete
Any Other
Any other
(iii) Main source of drinking water: The heading of the question has been
changed from Drinking water source to Main source of drinking water.
Drinking water cannot be classified as safe or unsafe without proper testing.
However an attempt has been made for improving the categorisation of the
sources of drinking water through provision of separate codes for tap water
from treated source and tap water from untreated source. The set of codes as
used in Census 2011 and the corresponding Census 2001 Codes are as follows:
Census 2001
Code
Census 2011
Code
Tap
Handpump
Tubewell
Covered well
Well
Un-covered well
Tank/pond/lake
Hand pump
River/canal
Tube well/borehole
Spring
Spring
Any Other
River/canal
Tank/pond/lake
Other Sources
(v) Bathing facility within premises: Realising that bathroom within the
house was a predominantly urban phenomenon, the heading has been changed
as bathing facility within the premises. Moreover, the categories have been
expanded to include Enclosure without roof . The code list for the Census 2011
along with codes as were in Census 2001 are given below:
Census 2001
Code
Census 2011
Code
Yes
Bathroom
No
Enclosure without
roof
No
Code
Census 2011
Code
No Latrine
Flush/pour flush
latrine connected to
Service Latrine
Pit Latrine
Septic system
Water Closet
Other system
Pit Latrine
With slab/Ventilated
Improved Pit
Without slab/open
pit
Service Latrine
Night soil removed
by human
Open
20
Introductory Note
Census 2011
Code
Computer/Laptop possessed
Yes
With Internet
Without Internet
No
(vii) Telephone: The scope of the question on Telephone has been expanded
to separately include Mobile Phone also. With the rapid expansion of Mobile
Phone coverage, traditional landline telephones have become less attractive.
The present Census would give rich data on this aspect. The codes in Census
2011 are as follows:
Census 2001
Code
Telephone
Yes
No
Census 2011
Code
Telephone/Mobile phone
1
Yes
Landline only
Mobile only
Both
No
POPULATION ENUMERATION
22
Date of birth: A provision has been made to record age in completed years
as well as date of birth. This is expected to improve reporting of age at least
among a section of the population.
Introductory Note
j)
Current marital status: Separate Codes have been assigned for Divorced
and Separated.
m) Worked any time during last year: The question on Work Status has been
modified as below:
Main Worker
If worked for 6 months or more
Marginal Worker
If worked for 3 months or more but less than 6 months
If worked for less than 3 months
Non Worker
If not worked at all
Such a classification would not only retain the older categorization of Main,
Marginal and Non Worker but would also offer richer data on the period of
work.
n) Non-economic activity: A category of Others has been included to
account for commercial sex workers and persons involved in illegal
activities. A new code for rentier has also been introduced.
o) Migration: While processing of the Census 2001 data, it was found
that the non-response with respect to providing the district names
was relatively more both in the question on place of birth and place of
last residence. It was felt that as the names of the districts might have
undergone a change, the respondent was unable to provide the correct
names. Thus, in Census 2011, an added item, namely, the name of village/
town has been added in both these questions.
p) Number of children born alive during last one year: Mention of the
specific period 1st March 2010 to 28th February 2011 on the body of the
Schedule has been done.
QUESTION DROPPED
Census 2011
Remarks
1) Name of person
No Change
2) Relationship to head
Relationship to head
No Change
3) Sex
Sex
Date of Birth
6) Age at marriage
Age at marriage
No Change
7) Religion
Religion
No Change
8) Mother tongue
Mother tongue
No Change
No Change
Literacy status
No Change
No Change
13) Disability
Disability
Additional codes for two types of marginal workers (3-6 months, less than 3
months)
Work category
No Change
Occupation
No Change
No Change
Class of worker
No Change
Non-economic activity
No Change
22) Mode of travel to place of work (Code) Mode of travel to place of work (Code) No Change
23) Birth place
Birth place
25) At the time of migration, was the place At the time of migration, was the place No Change
of last residence Rural/Urban
of last residence Rural/Urban
24
No Change
No Change
Introductory Note
Census 2011
Remarks
No Change
No Change
No Change
Dropped
Dropped
Dropped
Total
Rural
Urban
1981
1991
2001
1981
1991
2001
1981
1991
2001
Persons
18.0
17.6
23.3
15.0
16.8
16.8
27.6
19.8
39.8
Males
17.1
17.3
23.5
13.8
16.0
16.2
27.7
21.1
41.5
Females
18.8
17.9
23.1
16.3
17.7
17.5
27.5
18.3
37.9
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The people of India have, as usual done it! Nothing could have been
accomplished without their active cooperation. Team Census 2011 expresses
its humble and heartfelt gratitude to the billion plus people of this great
country who have overwhelmingly responded to the call and participated
wholeheartedly to make this gigantic task a success.
The heroines and heroes of Census 2011 have undoubtedly been the 2.7
million Enumerators and Supervisors who have spared no efforts to complete
the arduous task in time. Three weeks to cover a vast and diverse country
like India a task looked at with awe by the world but accomplished by
these humble women and men with sincerity and devotion to duty. The
nation is proud of them and we salute each one of them for their hard work,
perseverance and patience.
The tremendous effort of the support team, who are the backbone of any
successful venture, often goes unacknowledged. Census 2011 would not be
what it is without their effort! We thank the army of Master Trainers, Master
Trainer Facilitators and the National Trainers, numbering around 55, 000 in all
who have trained the Enumerators and Supervisors.
The 15,000 strong team of Charge Officers and Special Charge Officers, are our
field Commanders. Little could have been accomplished without this vital link
in the chain. It is on the strength of their shoulders that any National campaign
rests and to their full credit they deliver each and every time! Our sincere
gratitude to each one of them.
The Principal Census Officers, (District Collectors/Magistrates/Deputy
Commissioners, Commissioners of Municipal Corporations) and others senior
officials of the District and Municipal Corporations have been unsparing in
their efforts to ensure that the Census Operations are completed smoothly.
Heartfelt thanks to them for a job well done.
The Census is a fitting example of how National campaigns are accomplished
in India with the Federal and Provincial Governments working in close
cooperation. The State/UT Administrations have rendered unstinting
cooperation to make Census 2011 a success. Our debt of gratitude to the
26
Introductory Note
Chief Secretaries, Nodal Officers and all other senior officials in the State
Governments who have taken personal interest and have provided all the
required assistance needed. Our deep sense of gratitude to the Governors, Lt.
Governors and Chief Ministers of all the States and Union Territories who
graciously extended a helping hand whenever approached.
We are grateful to the members of the Technical Advisory Committee for
providing invaluable suggestions and enriching us with their experience.
Thanks are also due to several demographers, social scientists and other
data users for their constructive suggestions. I am especially grateful to
Shri A. R. Nanda and Shri J. K. Banthia, both former Registrar Generals &
Census Commissioners, India for their unstinting support and advice.
The Office of the Surveyor General of India has closely worked with us on the
digital mapping project in the State/UT Capitals. The Directorate of Printing
and Stationary and all the Central and State Government Presses, have stood
shoulder to shoulder with us to complete the huge job of printing within a
short time. The Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals has gone to
great lengths to ensure the timely supply of paper and to ensure its quality.
The Department of Posts has successfully undertaken the challenging task of
managing the logistics. They have also come out with a special commemorative
Postal Stamp on Census 2011. The NIC and NICSI have been extremely
supportive of us and have extended great support to Census 2011. We would
like to place on record our sincere appreciation to all of them.
Our thanks are due to the Planning Commission, the Ministry of Social
Justice and Empowerment, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Finance,
the Ministry of Personnel, the Ministry of Rural Development, the Ministry
of Urban Development and all the other Ministries and Departments of the
Central Government for their support and advice.
The various organisations of the United Nations- UNFPA, UNICEF, UNDP,
UN Women and also UNSD have been a source of constant support for Census
2011. Their involvement in Training and Publicity initiatives is significant and
the model of multiple UN agencies working in tandem, is worth emulating
in other projects. We gratefully acknowledge the contribution of all these
agencies.
Civil society organisations working in the field of disability, gender, the
homeless, street children and several such have wholeheartedly supported us
in our efforts. They have come forward in a big way in augmenting our efforts
in training, publicity and at times during the actual conduct of Census. We
would be remiss in our duty if we did not acknowledge their support.
The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Directorate of Audio and Visual Publicity
(DAVP), Doordarshan and All India Radio have provided support in the media
campaign. The Department of Consumer Affairs also ran an active media
campaign during the Census period. Several other departments and agencies
have added their bit to the publicity efforts of the States and Union Territories.
We would like to thank all of them for their contributions. The electronic and
print media has taken Census 2011 to every home in the country. They have
kept us on our toes by giving us a reality check constantly. We would like to
express our gratitude to the media for their support.
The former Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India Shri D. K. Sikri
was at the helm of affairs till November 2009. Under his able leadership the
basic contours of Census 2011 were conceptualised. I am personally beholden
to him for his continuing support and guidance.
PROVISIONAL POPULATION TOTALS INDIA 27
The Home Secretary has backed us all in each and every way. His doors have
always been open to us. Similarly, the Financial Advisor and his office have
been supportive of us throughout. We express our gratitude to the entire
Ministry of Home Affairs.
The Honble Union Home Minister has been a pillar of strength in all our
endeavours. His continuing leadership and personal involvement in all matters
concerning the Census and his efforts to ensure that its integrity was not
compromised, has been a source of motivation for us. He has indeed left a
lasting mark on Census 2011. We sincerely acknowledge his contribution. The
Ministers of State of Home Affairs have similarly been a constant source of
support. We thank them sincerely.
We acknowledge with thanks, the encouragement received from the Honble
President of India, the Honble Vice President of India, the Honble Prime
Minister of India and other members of the Union Cabinet.
To my team at the headquarters and the States/UTs, the Additional Registrar
General, the Deputy Director Generals, the Joint Registrar General, the
Deputy Registrar Generals, the Directors of Census Operations, the Director
(Administration), the Joint Directors and all the members of the team Census
2011, my personal debt of gratitude (Annexure-III). To say that the last two
years have been a huge challenge for each one of us in the Census family, would
definitely be an understatement. Every member of the Census organisation,
at the headquarters and the Directorates has toiled ceaselessly for the success
of Census 2011. Our family members have been a tower of strength silently
supporting and encouraging us to dedicate ourselves to this National cause.
Collective effort and team spirit has enabled us to climb these heady heights.
Kudos to the entire Team of Census 2011!
Census 2011 is epoch making from yet another perspective. While it has
thrown up benchmark data on the abundant human resource of India, it
has also laid the foundation for National Population Register. The National
Population Register when completed would significantly impact the way future
Censuses would be conducted in the country.
The creation of the National Population Register, the issue of Caste
Enumeration, the threat of left wing extremism, local socio-political agitations
in the States/UTs have added to the workload besides raising anxiety levels.
It is heartening that the sweat and toil has paid off and the Census has been
completed without any exception across the country. It is indeed with a great
sense of relief and satisfaction that we place before the people of India, the first
results of Census 2011-The Provisional Population Totals.
Bouquets for successfully completing this mammoth exercise go to Team
Census 2011. Brickbats, if any, are exclusively mine.
Dr. C. Chandramouli,
Registrar General &
Census Commissioner, India
Chaitra, Ekadashi,Vikram Samvat 2067
30th March 2011
28
Provisional
Population
Totals
FIGURES AT A GLANCE
INDIA
POPULATION 1
Persons
1,21,01,93,422
Males
Females
62,37,24,248
58,64,69,174
DECADAL
POPULATION GROWTH 2001-2011
Absolute
Percentage
Persons
Males
Females
18,14,55,986
9,15,01,158
8,99,54,828
17.64
17.19
18.12
DENSITY OF POPULATION 2
382
SEX RATIO
940
POPULATION IN
THE AGE GROUP 0-6 1
Absolute
Persons
Males
Females
15,87,89,287
8,29,52,135
7,58,37,152
Absolute
Percentage to
total
population
13.12
13.30
12.93
Literacy rate
Persons
Males
Females
77,84,54,120
44,42,03,762
33,42,50,358
74.04
82.14
65.46
LITERATES 1
F General Notes
1. The figures for India and Manipur, include by sex, the estimated population, 0-6 population
and literates of Paomata, Mao Maram and Purul sub-divisions of Senapati district of Manipur for
Census 2001 and 2011.
2. For working out density of India and the State of Jammu & Kashmir, the entire area and population of those portions of Jammu & Kashmir which are under illegal occupation of Pakistan and
China have not been taken into account.
3. For Census 2011, the population of Others has been clubbed with the Males for working
out population, 0-6 population, literates and related rates and ratios.
4. In working out decadal variation and percentage decadal variation for 1941-1951 & 19511961 of India and Nagaland State, the population of Tuensang District for 1951 (7,025) & the
population of Tuensang (83,501) & Mon (50,774) districts for 1961 Census have not been
taken into account as the area was censused for the first time in 1951 and the same are not
comparable.
5. The 1981 Census could not be held owing to disturbed conditions prevailing in Assam.
Hence the population figures for 1981 of Assam have been worked out by Interpolation.
6. The 1991 Census was not held in Jammu & Kashmir. Hence the population figures for
1991 of Jammu & Kashmir have been worked out by Interpolation.
7. The distribution of population of Pondicherry (Puducherry) by sex for 1901 (246,354),
and 1931 (258,628) and 1941 (285,011) is not avaiable. The figures of India for these years
are, therefore, exclusive of these population figures so far as distribution by sex is concerned.
8. Arunachal Pradesh was censused for the first time in 1961.
9. In 1951, Tuensang was censused for the first time for 129.5 sq.kms. of areas only. In 1961
censused areas of Tuensang District of Nagaland was increased to 5356.1 sq. kms.
10. Due to non-availability of census data the figures for the decades, from 1901 to 1951 have
been estimated for the districts of Kohima, Phek, Wokha, Zunheboto, and Mokokchung of
Nagaland. Estimation however could not be done for Tuensang and Mon as they were not fully
censused prior to 1961.
11. As the sex break-up for the districts.Sheopur, Morena, Bhind, Gwalior, Datia, Shivpuri, Guna,
Ratlam, Ujjain, Shajapur, Dewas, Jhabua, Dhar, Indore, West Nimar ( Khargone ), Barwani,
Rajgarh, Bhopal, Sehore and Raisen is not available for the year 1901. Figures for males and
females have been estimated for the year 1901 for Madhya Pradesh.
12. One village Ramtapur (code No. 217 and 101 in 1951 and 1961 respectively) of Jukkal circle
of Degulur taluka which was transferred under the state Reorganisation Act, 1956 from Maharashtra to Andhra Pradesh, still continues in Nanded district of Maharashtra. The population of
this village has, however, been adjusted in Nizamabad district for the year 1901 - 1951.
13. The names of Uttaranchal and Pondicherry have changed to Uttarakhand and Puducherry
respectively after Census 2001
Note of caution:
The figures in this report being of a provisional nature, only the important footnotes
have been given above. The detailed footnotes would be given when the final population tables are released.