NCERT Class 12 Geography — Chapter 3: Population : Distribution, Density, Growth and Composition

mcqeasy

Which state has the highest population among the following, according to the 2011 Census?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

AMaharashtra
BAndhra Pradesh
CBihar
DWest Bengal

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is Maharashtra.

Explanation

The Census of India 2011 provides the statistical basis for analyzing the population distribution across various states and union territories. According to this census, the population is unevenly distributed, with a few states accounting for a significant share of the country's total population.

Comparative Analysis

To determine the correct answer, the population figures of the given states based on the 2011 Census are compared below:

Maharashtra: Approximately 11.24 Crore (Ranked 2nd in India).
Bihar: Approximately 10.41 Crore (Ranked 3rd in India).
West Bengal: Approximately 9.13 Crore (Ranked 4th in India).
Andhra Pradesh (Undivided): Approximately 8.46 Crore (Ranked 5th in India).

Uttar Pradesh holds the first rank with a population of approximately 19.98 Crore. Among the options provided, Maharashtra has the highest population.

Key Takeaway: The sequence of the top five most populous states in India according to the 2011 Census is: Uttar Pradesh > Maharashtra > Bihar > West Bengal > Andhra Pradesh.

Your note

More from Chapter 3: Population : Distribution, Density, Growth and Composition

According to the Census of India, a 'Main Worker' is defined as a person who works for at least:

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The growth rate of population is low, even recording a negative growth rate during 1911-1921. Which phase of population growth does this statement describe?

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In India's demographic history, which period is characterised as the 'period of steady population growth' due to improvements in health and sanitation?

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With reference to the composition of the working population, which sector has the highest percentage of female workers?

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With reference to the phases of population growth in India, consider the following statements: 1. The period from 1901 to 1921 is referred to as the period of population explosion. 2. The decades 1921-1951 are known as the period of steady population growth. 3. During the post-1981 period, the growth rate has started slowing down gradually despite the population remaining high. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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The correct option is Maharashtra.

Explanation

Comparative Analysis

To determine the correct answer, the population figures of the given states based on the 2011 Census are compared below:

Maharashtra: Approximately 11.24 Crore (Ranked 2nd in India).
Bihar: Approximately 10.41 Crore (Ranked 3rd in India).
West Bengal: Approximately 9.13 Crore (Ranked 4th in India).
Andhra Pradesh (Undivided): Approximately 8.46 Crore (Ranked 5th in India).

Uttar Pradesh holds the first rank with a population of approximately 19.98 Crore. Among the options provided, Maharashtra has the highest population.

Key Takeaway: The sequence of the top five most populous states in India according to the 2011 Census is: Uttar Pradesh > Maharashtra > Bihar > West Bengal > Andhra Pradesh.