The correct option is 1 only
Explanation
Phase IV (post-1981 till present) of India's demographic transition is characterized by a distinct shift in population dynamics, marking the beginning of a stabilizing trend.
- Statement 1 is Correct: During this phase, while the population continued to grow in absolute numbers, the rate of growth started slowing down. This period witnessed a gradual decline in the annual growth rate compared to the previous decades of rapid explosion.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The Crude Birth Rate (CBR) has shown a downward trend during this phase. The slowing of the population growth rate is directly attributed to this consistent decline in birth rates.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The mean age at marriage has increased, not decreased. This increase, coupled with improvements in the quality of life and female education, has been a significant determinant in checking the population growth rate.
Key Takeaway: Phase IV of India's population growth is defined by a decelerating growth rate driven by a decline in the crude birth rate and an increase in the mean age at marriage.