UPSC Prelims 1995 · General Studies
Question 8: Economy and Social Development
According to the 1991 Census, the highest percentage of population in India is to be found in the age group of
AnswerThe answer is (d).
The 1991 Census showed a young population: children aged 5 to 14 formed the largest of the age groups listed, a result of high birth rates and falling child death rates in the earlier decades. The older groups, 35 to 55 and 60 and above, were smaller. A young age structure means many dependent children now and a large working-age group later. Remember: India's age pyramid has a broad base.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) The elderly aged 60 and above were a small part of the 1991 population.
- (b) The 35 to 55 group was smaller than the group of children.
- (c) 25 to 34 is a narrow band and held fewer people than the 5 to 14 group.
- (d) Right: 5 to 14 was the largest of the groups listed.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1995, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.