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India’s Rural vs Urban Population Trend from 1951 to 2011 by States, As per Census 2011

UID: PD-20241002-IN-03

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Meta Data

Source

Census

Last Updated

October 5, 2024

Time Range

1951 – 2011

Periodicity

Decadal

Overview

A rural population is typically defined by its low population density, vast open spaces, and its reliance on agriculture or natural resource-based economies. Rural areas often have smaller settlements, where social life is close-knit, and the lifestyle tends to be more traditional, often tied to farming, forestry, fishing, or mining. Infrastructure such as transportation, healthcare, education, and technology may be limited, impacting the quality of life and access to opportunities. In contrast, an urban population is characterized by higher population density, infrastructure development, and economic diversification. Urban areas are hubs of industrial, service, and technology-driven economies. Cities and towns offer access to education, healthcare, and entertainment, with modern amenities and a more cosmopolitan lifestyle. The focus is on non-agricultural activities, and there is greater integration into national and global markets.

Trends & Insights

The chart clearly shows consistent growth in both rural and urban populations across all states and union territories of India over the six-decade period. However, the growth rate in urban areas remianed significantly higher than in rural areas, indicating a steady trend of urbanization throughout the country. In 1951, India’s total rural population was approximately 298 million, while the urban population was only about 62 million. By 2011, these numbers grew to around 833 million and 377 million, respectively. This represents a 179% increase in rural population and a staggering 504% increase in urban population over the 60-year period. States like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat recorded rapid urban growth, while others like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha maintained a predominantly rural character despite overall population increases. Kerala’s rural population declined from 23.5 million in 2001 to 17.4 million in 2011, while its urban population nearly doubled in the same period, suggesting a significant rural-to-urban shift. Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Uttarakhand, carved out in 2000, showed distinct population trends compared to their parent states. In union territories like Delhi and Chandigarh, the urban populations grew dramatically, reflecting their roles as major metropolitan centres.

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Citation

Please cite this article using proper attribution to 360 Analytika when referencing or sharing our content.

Census. India’s rural vs urban population trend from 1951 to 2011 by states, as per Census 2011 (360 Analytika, Ed.) [Dataset]. 360 Analytika. https://360analytika.com/indias-rural-vs-urban-population-trend-by-states-as-per-census/

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