In the Indian Census History, in which decade the population growth rate was recorded negative?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct answer is Option 3: 1911 - 1921.

**Explanation:**

The decade 1911-1921 is the only decade in the history of the Indian Census where a negative population growth rate was recorded. This was primarily due to a confluence of devastating factors:

*   **Widespread Famine:** Severe famines occurred in various parts of India during this period, leading to significant mortality.
*   **Influenza Pandemic:** The Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918-1919 had a particularly devastating impact on India, causing millions of deaths. The already weakened population due to famine was highly susceptible to the disease.
*   **Other Epidemics:** Besides influenza, other epidemics like plague and cholera also contributed to the high death toll.
*   **Poor Healthcare:** Limited access to healthcare and sanitation further exacerbated the situation, making it difficult to control the spread of diseases and treat the affected population.

These factors combined resulted in a higher death rate than birth rate during the 1911-1921 decade, leading to a negative population growth.

**Why other options are incorrect:**

*   **Option 1: 1891 - 1901:** While famines and epidemics were prevalent during this decade as well, the population growth rate remained positive, although it was relatively low compared to subsequent decades. It was not negative.
*   **Option 2: 1901 - 1911:** This decade saw improvements in infrastructure and some advancements in healthcare compared to the previous decade. The population growth rate was positive and higher than the 1891-1901 decade.
*   **Option 4: 1921 - 1931:** This decade marked the beginning of a period of relatively stable population growth in India. The impact of the Spanish Flu had subsided, and there were improvements in healthcare and famine management. The population growth rate was positive and significantly higher than the previous decade.

Therefore, only the decade 1911-1921 experienced a negative population growth rate in the history of the Indian Census, making Option 3 the correct answer.