Question

Explain any three factors that influence the spatial distribution of population in India

Answer 1

1. Terrain: The plains have encouraged a higher density of population as compared to the mountain regions. The steep slope of the Himalayas restricts the availability of land for agriculture, development of transport, industries and other economic activities which may tend to discourage concentration of population and its proper growth. So, the great plains of North India is a land of an extremely gentle slope and offer great opportunities for the growth of agriculture, transport, and industries.

2. Industries: Industrial growth offers massive employment opportunities and acts as a great magnet to attract people. This results in higher population density. Industrial areas are invariably associated with areas of high population densities. One of the major causes of population density in West Bengal, Gujarat and Maharashtra is the phenomenal growth of industries.

3. Urbanization: Urbanization and population concentration go hand in hand and are closely related to each other. Agricultural based rural areas do not provide employment to all the people living there. Even a small scale cottage industry fails to provide employment to the entire rural folk. Urban areas provide a vast scope for employment in industries, trade, transport, and services.