Which of the following is true about Indian demography on the eve of independence ?

(A) Water and air-borne diseases were under control

(B) Infant mortality rate was 24 per thousands Live births only

(C) Overall literacy rate was less than 16 percent

(D) Life expectancy was 44 years

Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

(C) and (D) only

The correct answer is option (4) : (C) and (D) only

On the eve of independence in India :

•  (C) Overall literacy rate was less than 16 percent
• (D) Life expectancy was also very low-44 years in contrast to the present 68 years.

(A) Water and air-borne diseases were under control : This is incorrect. The water and air-borne diseases were rampant and took a huge toll on life.

(B) Infant mortality rate was 24 per thousands Live births only : This is incorrect. The infant mortality rate was quite alarming—about 218 per thousand live births.

Note: Option D is taken from old NCERT book. In the new book, it is mentioned that " Life expectancy was also very low—32 years in contrast to the present 69 years."