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IGNOU MEDS-071 Previous Year Solved Question Paper in Hindi

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Q1. Define Population Studies. Differentiate between Population Studies and Demography. 5+5

Ans. Definition of Population Studies: Population Studies is a broad, interdisciplinary field dedicated to the scientific study of the size, structure, distribution, and changes in human populations. It is not merely confined to the statistical analysis of births, deaths, and migration, but also investigates the social, economic, cultural, political, and biological determinants and consequences of these processes. Population Studies analyzes topics such as fertility, mortality, migration, urbanization, population growth, and population policies. It seeks to understand how population characteristics affect society and the environment, and in turn, how society and the environment shape the population. It is a policy-oriented discipline that provides crucial insights for development planning, healthcare, education, and other social sectors. Difference between Population Studies and Demography: Although the terms ‘Population Studies’ and ‘Demography’ are often used interchangeably, there are significant differences in their scope and focus:

• Scope: Demography has a narrower scope. It is primarily the mathematical and statistical study of population processes— fertility, mortality, and migration . It focuses on ‘how’ and ‘how much’ (e.g., how fast is the population growing?). In contrast, Population Studies has a much broader scope. It analyzes the social, economic, and political determinants and consequences of demographic processes. It focuses on ‘why’ (e.g., why is the fertility rate declining?).
• Nature: Demography is more descriptive and technical , emphasizing the quantitative analysis of data. Population Studies is more analytical and interdisciplinary , integrating theories and methods from other disciplines like sociology, economics, geography, anthropology, and history.
• Relationship: Demography can be considered the mathematical core of Population Studies. Population Studies uses the data and analysis generated by demography to develop a broader understanding of population phenomena. In simple terms, demography is the science of population statistics, while Population Studies is the study of the relationship between these statistics and human society.

In summary, demography measures and describes the dynamics of a population, whereas Population Studies explains the causes and consequences of these dynamics.

Q2. “Population is the cause and consequence of development.” Illustrate with examples. 20

Ans. This statement accurately captures the complex, two-way relationship between population and development. Population not only influences the course of development but is also shaped by it. This can be illustrated through the following points and examples: Population as a Cause of Development: Population is often seen as a crucial resource for development.

• Human Capital and Labour Force: A large and young population can provide a vast labour force for industries and services. If this population is educated and skilled, it constitutes Human Capital , which drives technological innovation and economic productivity. For example, China leveraged its massive labour force to achieve rapid growth in its manufacturing sector.
• Market Size: A large population creates a large domestic market for goods and services, which stimulates investment and economic activity.
• Pressure for Innovation: A growing population can put pressure on resources, which in turn can spur innovation for new technologies and solutions (as argued in Boserup’s theory).

However, if population growth is unchecked, it can also be a hindrance to development. A large, uneducated, and unskilled population leads to unemployment, poverty, and excessive pressure on resources, thereby slowing down the pace of development.

Population as a Consequence of Development:

The process of development directly impacts the characteristics of a population.

• Decline in Fertility: As a country develops economically, there is an increase in education (especially female education), access to healthcare, and urbanization. This leads to a rise in the age of marriage and increased use of family planning methods, resulting in a decline in the fertility rate . For instance, the state of Kerala in India, with its high literacy and better health services, has a much lower fertility rate compared to other Indian states.
• Decline in Mortality: Development ensures better nutrition, sanitation, and access to healthcare, which helps control infectious diseases and increases life expectancy. This leads to a rapid fall in the mortality rate . This is the first step of the demographic transition.
• Change in Age Structure: Changes in fertility and mortality rates resulting from development alter the population’s age structure. Initially, falling mortality leads to a youth bulge, and later, falling fertility leads to an increase in the share of the working-age population, creating the opportunity for a Demographic Dividend .

Conclusion:

The relationship between population and development is like a double-edged sword. On one hand, a healthy, educated, and managed population can be a powerful engine of development. On the other hand, uncontrolled population growth can nullify the gains of development. Similarly, the process of development itself fundamentally alters the size, structure, and distribution of the population. Therefore, understanding population dynamics and formulating effective population policies are imperative for sustainable development.

Q3. Discuss in detail about Demographic Dividend in India. 20

Ans. Introduction: What is Demographic Dividend? The Demographic Dividend refers to the potential for economic growth that can result from a shift in a country’s population age structure. This occurs when the share of the working-age population (15-64 years) becomes larger than the share of the non-working-age or dependent population (under 14 and over 65). In this situation, there is potential for a rise in per capita income as more people are engaged in productive activities and fewer are dependent. This is a time-bound window of opportunity, typically lasting for 20-30 years. Demographic Dividend in the Indian Context: India is currently in the midst of its demographic transition and is one of the youngest countries in the world.

• Window of Opportunity: India’s demographic dividend began around 2005-06 and is expected to last until 2055-56. By the mid-2020s, India’s median age is projected to be just 29, in contrast to the much higher median ages of China and Western Europe.
• Working-age Population: According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), about 68% of India’s population is in the working-age group. This vast human resource, if utilized properly, can provide an unprecedented boost to the country’s economic growth.

Potential Benefits of the Demographic Dividend:

1. Increased Labour Supply: A rise in the working-age population increases the supply of labour, which can boost production and economic growth.
2. Higher Savings Rate: When the number of dependents is low, individual and national savings rates tend to increase. This increased saving can be invested back into the economy, further accelerating capital formation and growth.
3. Human Capital: If the young population is provided with good education and healthcare, it transforms into skilled and productive human capital, enhancing innovation and competitiveness.
4. Growing Domestic Market: A large, young, and working population creates strong domestic demand for goods and services, which stimulates economic activity.

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Challenges and the Way Forward:


The demographic dividend is not an automatic benefit; it requires concerted policy efforts to be realized. The main challenges for India are:

• Skill Development and Education: India’s biggest challenge is to provide its vast youth population with employable skills. The education system needs to be aligned with the needs of the industry.
• Job Creation: The economy needs to create enough quality jobs for the millions of young people who join the labour force each year. Currently, unemployment and underemployment are major problems.
• Healthcare: Only a healthy workforce can be productive. Investing in nutrition, sanitation, and accessible healthcare is crucial.
• Gender Equality: Increasing female participation in the labour force is critical to maximizing the dividend. Currently, India has a very low female labour force participation rate.


Conclusion:


India stands at the cusp of a unique demographic opportunity. If the government and private sector make the right investments in education, health, skill development, and job creation, this “dividend” can propel the country onto a high-growth path for decades. If these challenges are not addressed, this opportunity could turn into a “demographic disaster,” with a large number of unemployed and disaffected youth.

Q4. Define Migration. Discuss the stream of migration in India. 5+5

Ans. Definition of Migration: Migration refers to the process of movement of people from one geographical location to another with the intention of settling, either permanently or temporarily, at the new location. It is a complex demographic process that significantly affects the size, structure, and distribution of a population. Migration can be classified on several bases:

• By Boundary: Internal Migration (within the borders of a country, e.g., from one state to another) and International Migration (from one country to another).
• By Will: Voluntary Migration (done by choice for better opportunities) and Forced Migration (compelled by war, natural disaster, or persecution).
• By Duration: Permanent , Temporary , or Seasonal migration.

The process is driven by

‘Pull’ factors

that attract people to the destination (e.g., employment, better education) and

‘Push’ factors

that drive people out of the place of origin (e.g., poverty, unemployment, conflict).


Streams of Migration in India:


In India, internal migration, in particular, is a significant phenomenon. According to the 2011 Census, the total number of migrants in India was over 450 million. Four main streams of internal migration have been identified in India:

1. Rural to Rural: This is one of the largest streams of migration in India, especially for women. The primary reason is marriage , as women traditionally move to their husband’s village after marriage. In addition, seasonal migration for agricultural work is also a significant part of this stream.
2. Rural to Urban: This is the most prominent and discussed stream of migration for economic reasons. People are attracted to cities due to ‘pull’ factors like employment, better income, education, and health facilities, while being pushed out of villages by ‘push’ factors like a lack of job opportunities, poverty, and dependence on agriculture. This stream accelerates the process of urbanization.
3. Urban to Urban: In this stream, people move from a smaller town to a larger metropolitan city in search of better career opportunities, higher education, or an improved lifestyle. This migration is often undertaken by highly skilled and educated individuals.
4. Urban to Rural: This is the least common stream of migration. It usually occurs when people return to their ancestral villages after retirement or move to rural areas to escape the congestion and high cost of living in cities. A temporary surge in this stream was observed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Among these streams, migration for men is predominantly for work and employment, whereas for women, it is mainly due to marriage.

Q5. Define morbidity and mortality. Describe the factors affecting morbidity and mortality in India. 5+5

Ans. Definition of Morbidity and Mortality: Morbidity: Morbidity refers to the state of being diseased or unhealthy within a population. It measures the incidence or prevalence of illness, injury, or disability in a group of people. Morbidity rates are typically expressed as the number of new cases (incidence rate) or total cases (prevalence rate) of a particular disease per 1,000 or 100,000 population. It is a key indicator of a country’s health status and the quality of its healthcare services. Mortality: Mortality refers to the number of deaths that occur in a particular population during a specific period. It is a central component of demography. It is measured through various rates, such as:

• Crude Death Rate (CDR): The total number of deaths in a year per 1,000 population.
• Infant Mortality Rate (IMR): The number of deaths of infants under one year of age per 1,000 live births.
• Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR): The number of deaths of mothers due to pregnancy-related causes per 100,000 live births.


Factors Affecting Morbidity and Mortality in India:


Morbidity and mortality in India are influenced by several interconnected factors, which can be categorized as follows:

1. Socio-economic Factors:
   • Poverty: Poverty is directly linked to malnutrition, unhygienic housing, and lack of access to healthcare, which increase the risk of disease and death.
   • Education: Literacy, especially female literacy, increases awareness about health, hygiene, and nutrition, leading to a reduction in morbidity and mortality, particularly infant and maternal mortality.
2. Environmental Factors:
   • Sanitation and Clean Water: Lack of access to safe drinking water and proper sanitation facilities leads to water-borne diseases like diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid, which are major causes of morbidity and mortality.
   • Air Pollution: Rising air pollution in both urban and rural areas is increasing the incidence of respiratory illnesses, heart diseases, and cancers.
3. Healthcare System:
   • Access and Quality: The availability, accessibility, and quality of health facilities (hospitals, primary health centres) directly impact morbidity and mortality. Rural and remote areas often lack quality healthcare services.
   • Immunization: The success of immunization programs has helped control many infectious diseases like smallpox and polio, leading to a decline in mortality.
4. Nutritional Factors:
   • Malnutrition: Undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies lower the immunity of children and adults, making them more susceptible to infections. It is a major underlying cause of infant and child mortality.
5. Lifestyle and Behavioural Factors:
   • Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs): Changing lifestyles, use of tobacco and alcohol, and unhealthy diets are increasing the burden of NCDs like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and cancer, which have now become the leading causes of death in India.

Q6. What is Demographic Data? Discuss the different sources of data in India. 5+5

Ans. Definition of Demographic Data: Demographic data is statistical information about a population that describes its size, structure, distribution, and characteristics. This data also chronicles the changes in a population over time, such as births, deaths, and migration. Demographic data includes:

• Size: The total number of people living in an area.
• Structure: The classification of the population based on age, sex, marital status, etc.
• Distribution: The geographical spread of the population, such as the rural-urban divide or distribution among states.
• Characteristics: Level of education, occupation, income, religion, language, etc.
• Vital Events: Births, deaths, marriages, divorces, and migrations.

This data is crucial for governments, researchers, and businesses for planning, policy formulation, and understanding socio-economic trends.


Different Sources of Demographic Data in India:


India has several sources for collecting demographic data, the main ones being:

1. The Census:
   • This is the most comprehensive and important source of demographic data. In India, it is conducted every ten years by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India.
   • It provides detailed information on the demographic, social, and economic characteristics of every individual in the country. This data is available down to the lowest administrative level (like a village or ward), making it invaluable for local-level planning.
2. Civil Registration System (CRS):
   • This is a system for the continuous and permanent recording of vital events like births, deaths, marriages, and divorces.
   • Legally, it is mandatory to register every birth and death in India. However, the system is still not completely reliable due to incomplete coverage (under-registration), especially in rural areas, though it is continuously improving.
3. Sample Surveys:
   • Sample Registration System (SRS): This is a large-scale dual-record sample survey designed to provide reliable annual estimates of fertility and mortality rates in India. It is designed to fill the data gap between the Census and the CRS and is one of the most reliable sources at the national and state levels.
   • National Family Health Survey (NFHS): This is a large-scale, multi-round survey conducted on representative samples of households throughout India. It provides detailed information on fertility, infant and child mortality, family planning, maternal and child health, nutrition, and HIV/AIDS.
   • National Sample Survey (NSS): Conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), these surveys collect data on various socio-economic subjects, such as employment, unemployment, consumption expenditure, and health, which often include significant demographic information.

Q7. What are the different theories of population studies? Explain the Malthus and Boserup theories of population. 10+10

Ans. Different Theories of Population Studies: Several theories have been developed in population studies to explain the relationship between population growth and society. These theories have evolved over time and present different perspectives. Some of the major theories are:

• Malthusian Theory: Argues that population grows faster than the food supply, leading to famine and disease.
• Marxist Theory: Attributes population problems to the inequalities of the capitalist system rather than to population growth itself.
• Optimum Population Theory: Advocates for a population size that ensures the maximum per capita income.
• Demographic Transition Theory: Describes the stages of change in birth and death rates in line with economic development.
• Boserup’s Theory: Argues, contrary to Malthus, that population growth stimulates technological innovation, especially in agriculture.


Malthus’s Theory of Population:


Thomas Robert Malthus presented his famous theory in his 1798 work, “An Essay on the Principle of Population.” The main points of his theory are:

• Imbalance between Population and Food Supply: Malthus argued that, if left unchecked, the population grows in a geometrical ratio (e.g., 1, 2, 4, 8, 16…), whereas the food supply increases only in an arithmetical ratio (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5…).
• Consequence: Due to this imbalance, a point is reached where the population outstrips the available resources, especially food. This leads to widespread poverty and starvation in society.
• Checks on Population: Malthus described two types of checks that correct this imbalance:
  • Preventive Checks: These are voluntary measures that reduce the birth rate, such as delaying marriage and practicing celibacy (moral restraint). Malthus considered contraception a vice.
  • Positive Checks: These are events that increase the death rate and reduce the population, such as famine, war, epidemics, floods, and other natural disasters.
• Criticism: Malthus’s theory has been criticized for underestimating technological progress, particularly the revolution in agriculture and the development of contraceptive methods, which increased food production and made it possible to control fertility rates.


Boserup’s Theory of Population:


The Danish economist Ester Boserup proposed a more optimistic theory in response to Malthus’s pessimistic view. The main points of her theory are:

• Population Growth as a Stimulant: Contrary to Malthus, Boserup argued that population growth itself is the main driver of agricultural innovation and intensification . Her famous line is, “Necessity is the mother of invention.”
• Process of Agricultural Development: According to Boserup, when population density is low, people use extensive farming methods (like shifting cultivation). As population grows and pressure on land increases, people are forced to adopt more intensive methods. This includes cultivating land more frequently, developing irrigation systems, using fertilizers, and growing new crops.
• Conclusion: In Boserup’s model, population growth is not constrained by the limits of food supply; rather, it induces the technological changes that increase food production. Population pressure is seen as a positive stimulus that promotes economic development, rather than a negative force.

In short, while Malthus believed that food supply limits population size, Boserup believed that population growth determines the methods of food supply.

Q8. Write short notes on any two of the following: 10+10 (a) Rural to Urban migration and its impact (b) Infant Mortality Rate and its causes (c) Demographic transition theory

Ans. (a) Rural to Urban migration and its impact Rural-to-urban migration is the process in which people leave rural areas (villages) to settle in urban areas (cities) in search of better economic opportunities and a higher standard of living. It is a major driver of urbanization in most developing countries, including India. Causes:

• Push Factors: These are factors that push people out of villages, such as low income in agriculture, unemployment or underemployment, landlessness, indebtedness, and a lack of basic facilities like education and health.
• Pull Factors: These are factors that attract people to cities, such as more job opportunities, higher wages, better education and healthcare services, entertainment, and the allure of a modern lifestyle.


Impact:

Impact on Urban Areas:


• Positive: Availability of cheap labour for industries and the service sector, which boosts economic growth.
• Negative: Extreme pressure on urban infrastructure like housing, water, electricity, and transport. Uncontrolled growth of slums, congestion, increased pollution, and a rise in crime rates.


Impact on Rural Areas:


• Positive: Remittances sent home by migrants improve the income of rural households. The pressure of population on land is reduced.
• Negative: “Brain drain,” where young, educated, and able-bodied people leave the village, leaving behind only the elderly and children. A shortage of labour for agricultural activities.


(b) Infant Mortality Rate and its causes

Definition:

The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) is the number of deaths of infants under one year of age per 1,000 live births in a given year. It is a highly sensitive indicator of the overall health status, socio-economic development, and quality of the healthcare system of a country or region. A high IMR reflects poor healthcare, poverty, and inequality.


Major Causes of Infant Mortality in India:


The causes of infant death can be divided into two main periods:

1. Neonatal Mortality (Death in the first 28 days of life): Most infant deaths in India occur during this period. The main causes are:
   • Prematurity and Low Birth Weight: This is the single largest cause, often linked to the mother’s poor nutrition and inadequate antenatal care.
   • Birth Asphyxia: Lack of oxygen during birth.
   • Infections: Infections like sepsis, pneumonia, and tetanus, often resulting from unhygienic delivery practices and inadequate postnatal care.
   • Congenital Anomalies: Physical defects present at birth.
2. Post-Neonatal Mortality (from 28 days to 1 year):
   • Pneumonia and Diarrhea: These are the two leading causes of death in this age group, directly linked to malnutrition, poor sanitation, and lack of immunization.
   • Malnutrition: While not a direct cause of death, it weakens the child’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections.
   • Vaccine-preventable diseases: Illnesses like measles, if immunization is missed.

In addition to these direct causes,

underlying factors

such as poverty, low levels of female education, early marriage and pregnancy, inadequate access to health services, and a lack of clean water and sanitation are also responsible for the high IMR.


(c) Demographic transition theory

Definition:

The Demographic Transition Theory is a model that describes population change over time. It links population growth to a society’s transition from a pre-industrial to an industrialized economic system. The theory was developed based on the experience of Western European countries.


Stages of the Transition:


• Stage 1 (High Stationary): Characterized by high birth rates and high death rates. Population growth is slow and stable. This stage corresponds to pre-industrial societies where life is difficult, and both birth and death rates are high and fluctuating. No country is currently in this stage.
• Stage 2 (Early Expanding): Death rates fall rapidly due to improvements in public health, sanitation, and food supply. However, birth rates remain high. The gap between high births and low deaths results in a rapid population explosion. Many developing countries in Asia and Africa are in this stage.
• Stage 3 (Late Expanding): Birth rates begin to decline due to factors like increased education (especially for women), urbanization, access to contraception, and a shift in social norms towards smaller families. Population growth slows down. India is considered to be in this stage.
• Stage 4 (Low Stationary): Both birth and death rates are low. The population becomes stable or grows very slowly. Most developed countries like the USA, UK, and France are in this stage.
• Stage 5 (Declining?): Some demographers propose a fifth stage where birth rates fall below death rates, leading to an absolute decline in the population. Countries like Japan, Germany, and Italy are experiencing this phenomenon, facing challenges of an aging population and a shrinking workforce.