The most populous state of the country, Uttar Pradesh will continue to be an important factor in India’s demographic landscape. According to Census 2011, the state has a complex population structure with diversity, reflecting its rich cultural heritage on the one hand and socio-economic challenges on the other. We present in these pages an analysis of Census 2011 data from Uttar Pradesh, including key demographic indicators, trends and implications of these data.
Uttar Pradesh Data Based on the Census 2011
| Demographic Indicator | Value/Percentage |
|---|---|
| Sex Ratio (Females per 1000 Males) | 912 |
| Child Sex Ratio (0-6 years) | 902 |
| Overall Literacy Rate | 67.68% |
| Male Literacy Rate | 77.28% |
| Female Literacy Rate | 57.18% |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) Population | 20.7% |
| Muslim Population | 19.26% |
| Hindu Population | Majority |
| Other Religions (Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, Jain) | Minority |
Population Overview
According to the 2011 census, the total population of Uttar Pradesh has grown to 199,812,341. This huge figure is approximately 16.51% of India’s total population, making Uttar Pradesh the most densely populated state in the country. The density was 828 persons per square kilometer, which is much higher than the national average of 382 persons per square kilometer.
Urban vs Rural Population
The rural-urban divide in Uttar Pradesh is very stark. While the urban population is 22.27%, the rural population on the other hand is a huge chunk at 77.73%. Given the agrarian economy and the dominance of agriculture as the main means of livelihood for most of its residents, rural dominance within the state is largely understandable.
Sex Ratio
According to the Census 2011, the sex ratio in Uttar Pradesh was 912 females per 1000 males, which is lower than the national average of 940 females per 1000 males, hence reflecting the gender imbalance that has not been so good in the state. The sex ratio of children aged 0-6 years is even more alarming with 902 females per 1000 males, pointing to the dire need for gender-equality focused initiatives.
Literacy Rate
In 2011, the literacy rate of Uttar Pradesh was recorded at 67.68%. While the male literacy rate was 77.28% with a difference of almost 20 percentage points, it was only 57.18% for females. This is a serious gender imbalance in education, an issue on which the state can only continue to work under various educational programs and policies aimed at increasing female literacy.
Caste and Religious Composition
Uttar Pradesh has a very diverse population structure in terms of caste and religion, which enriches the complex fabric of its social diversities. Scheduled Castes (SC) form 20.7% of the total population, again the highest in the country. It also has a considerable Muslim population, which is 19.26% of the total – again, the highest percentage among all Indian states. Other religious communities include Hindus, who are in the majority; Sikhs, Christians, Buddhists and Jains are in decreasing percentage order.
Demographic Trends and Implications
Demographic trends in Uttar Pradesh have significant impact on the social, economic and political landscape of the state. High density population with a rural majority population creates several problems related to building infrastructure, meeting healthcare needs and providing education. The skewed sex ratio and gender disparity in literacy reflect the persistent problems of gender equality and its empowerment in the state.
Population Growth
Uttar Pradesh’s population has grown significantly over the past few decades. Its population grew by 20.23 per cent from 2001 to 2011, which was higher than the national growth rate of 17.64 per cent. This has created enormous pressure on the state’s resources and infrastructure, and requires stringent population control measures along with appropriate sustainable development strategies.
Migration Patterns
Demographically, Uttar Pradesh has also been affected by a considerable amount of migration. The state has been the largest contributor to inter-state and rural-to-urban migration in search of better job opportunities. This has resulted in a decline in the working-age population in rural areas, further aggravating the issues of agricultural productivity and rural development.
Healthcare and Life Expectancy
Therefore, healthcare remains a matter of great concern in Uttar Pradesh, as the state’s healthcare infrastructure clearly cannot support its huge population. The state recorded an infant mortality rate of 53 deaths per 1,000 live births, while the national average is 40 deaths per 1,000 live births. Life expectancy at birth in Uttar Pradesh is lower than the national average – which clearly shows that a lot more needs to be done with regard to healthcare facilities and services.