Q24 · UPPSC Prelims 2021 · Set D · General Studies

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As per the Census, 2011 estimates,which one of the following is the most populous State in India?

A Bihar
B Madhya Pradesh
C Maharashtra
D Uttar Pradesh

Correct answer: (d) Uttar Pradesh

Explanation

  1. A

    Bihar

    Option (a) claims Bihar is the most populous State in India as per the 2011 Census. However, Bihar ranks third in terms of population size after Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

  2. B

    Madhya Pradesh

    Option (b) states that Madhya Pradesh is the most populous State according to the 2011 Census data. Madhya Pradesh holds the fifth rank in population size nationwide, making this choice incorrect.

  3. C

    Maharashtra

    Option (c) suggests that Maharashtra is the most populous State in India based on the 2011 Census. While Maharashtra holds the second highest population in the country with over 11.2 crore people, it is still behind the top-ranked state. Thus, this option is not the key.

  4. D

    Uttar Pradesh

    Option (d) asserts that Uttar Pradesh is the most populous State in India according to the Census 2011 estimates. With a population exceeding 19.9 crore people, Uttar Pradesh accounts for roughly 16.5 percent of India's total population, surpassing all other states by a significant margin. This makes it the correct and accurate answer among the given choices.

Summary. Official key is (d) Uttar Pradesh. The 2011 Census provides definitive demographic data for India's states and union territories. Uttar Pradesh emerged at the top with the largest population size, followed by Maharashtra and Bihar. Candidates often confuse overall population rankings with area rankings or density figures. Only option (d) correctly identifies the most populous state.