UPSC Prelims 2009 Q47: Geography – Population & Demography
Which one among the following South Asian countries has the highest population density ?
- (a) India
- (b) Nepal
- (c) Pakistan
- (d) Sri Lanka
Answer: (a) India
Explanation
Which South Asian country has the highest population density
Among the given South Asian nations, one stands out for its particularly dense population relative to land area.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) India | Correct | Among these four, India's population density is the highest, reflecting its massive population relative to its land area |
| (b) Nepal | Incorrect | Nepal's density, while significant, is lower than India's |
| (c) Pakistan | Incorrect | Pakistan's density is also lower than India's |
| (d) Sri Lanka | Incorrect | Sri Lanka's density is also lower than India's among this group |
Population density comparison (among these four):
| Country | Relative density |
|---|---|
| India | Highest (among these four) |
| Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka | Lower |
Answer: (a) India.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Among India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, India has the highest population density.
- (b) Incorrect. Nepal's density is lower than India's.
- (c) Incorrect. Pakistan's density is also lower than India's.
- (d) Incorrect. Sri Lanka's density is also lower than India's.
Key point
Among India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, INDIA has the highest population density.
Remember
Among India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka: India has the highest population density.
Common mistakes
- Assuming a smaller country (like Sri Lanka) automatically has higher density than a much larger, more populous one like India.
- Not comparing actual density figures (population per unit area) rather than just total population.
- Confusing this comparison with Bangladesh, which has even higher density but is not among these four options.
Exam tip
Among India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka specifically, India has the highest population density — though Bangladesh (not listed here) would actually top the broader South Asian region.
Sources
- Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India — Census of India 2001: Provisional Population Totals
- World Bank — World Development Indicators 2009 (population density)