10th Census
Census 1971
India's population crossed half a billion. A pivotal census conducted during one of the most transformative decades in Indian history.
Key Statistics
- Total Population
- 54,81,59,652
- 548 Million
- Literacy Rate
- 34.45%
- +5.8% from 1961
- Sex Ratio
- 930
- Females per 1000 Males
- Decadal Growth
- 24.80%
- 1961-1971
Top 10 States by Population
| Rank | State | Population | Literacy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Uttar Pradesh | 88,341,144 | 23.99% |
| 2 | Bihar | 56,353,369 | 23.17% |
| 3 | Maharashtra | 50,412,235 | 45.77% |
| 4 | West Bengal | 44,312,011 | 38.86% |
| 5 | Andhra Pradesh | 43,502,708 | 24.57% |
| 6 | Tamil Nadu | 41,199,168 | 45.40% |
| 7 | Madhya Pradesh | 41,654,119 | 27.27% |
| 8 | Karnataka | 29,299,014 | 36.83% |
| 9 | Rajasthan | 25,765,806 | 22.57% |
| 10 | Gujarat | 26,697,475 | 41.01% |
Historical Context
10th Census of India - landmark decennial census
Bangladesh Liberation War (1971) - reshaping the subcontinent
Bank nationalization and 'Garibi Hatao' movement
Green Revolution boosting agricultural productivity
Population Growth Trend
Data Availability
Census 1971 data is available in archival format. State-level summary shown here. View complete data →