According to 2011 census, which of the following states is at the second place in terms of number of people?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Maharashtra
In 2011, Uttar Pradesh had the largest population, followed by Maharashtra, Bihar and West Bengal.
Note 1: This question is taken from the Appendix (i) of the NCERT book (India: People and Economy). Do not miss the Glossary and the Appendices while studying.
Note 2: One line of the chapter names the six most populous states, from the biggest down. The order in which a list is written can itself be the answer.
Note 3: The same question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2026 on 11-05-2026 (Slot 1).
NCERT (2026-27):
Appendix (i) India: State-wise Population Distribution, Density and Growth, 2011 “During 2001-2011, the growth rates of almost all States and Union Territories have registered a lower figure compared to the previous decade, namely, 1991-2001. The percentage decadal growth rates of the six most populous States, namely, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh have all fallen during 2001-2011 compared to 1991-2001, the fall being the lowest for Andhra Pradesh (3.5% percentage points) and highest for Maharashtra (6.7 percentage points).” |
