The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Census of India 2011 provided critical data regarding the decadal growth rate of the population. A significant demographic shift observed during the 2001-2011 period was the sharp decline in the growth rate across the country compared to the previous decade (1991-2001), marking a transition towards stabilization.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: During the period 2001-2011, the decadal growth rate of India's population fell to 17.64% from 21.54% in 1991-2001. This trend of deceleration was widespread, with almost all States and Union Territories registering a lower growth rate compared to the previous decade. While there were minor exceptions, the overwhelming trend was a decline.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Tamil Nadu and Puducherry were notable exceptions to the national trend of declining growth rates. Tamil Nadu registered an increase in its growth rate from 11.7% (1991-2001) to 15.6% (2001-2011). Similarly, Puducherry saw an increase from 20.6% to 28.1%. Therefore, they did not register a decline.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Among the six most populous states (Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh), the decline in growth rate was most significant in Maharashtra. Its growth rate dropped by approximately 6.7 percentage points, falling from 22.7% in 1991-2001 to 16.0% in 2001-2011.
Key Takeaway:
The 2001-2011 decade is characterized by a general deceleration in population growth across India. While Maharashtra recorded the steepest fall among the most populous states, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry defied the national trend by registering an increase in their growth rates.