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CBSE Class 9 Geography Chapter 6 Population Worksheet with Answers

Population is a core chapter in CBSE Class 9 Geography that explains why India has over 1.4 billion people, why they cluster in the Indo-Gangetic Plain but avoid deserts and mountains, and how the National Population Policy 2000 tackles rapid growth. This printable worksheet tests your grasp of population size, distribution, density, growth rate, composition (age, sex ratio, literacy, occupation), and policy measures through 30+ questions across six sections.

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Key takeaways

  • Complete worksheet covering population size, distribution, density, growth, composition and NPP 2000 as per NCERT Class 9 Geography Chapter 6.
  • Section-wise progressive difficulty: MCQs test factual recall, short answers assess understanding, HOTS questions develop analytical skills.
  • Suggested time 90 minutes; difficulty level Medium — ideal for term exam practice and self-assessment.
  • Includes one case-study question mirroring CBSE 2024-25 competency-based assessment pattern.
  • Full answer key with explanations enables independent learning and concept reinforcement.
  • Covers sex ratio, literacy rate, birth rate, death rate formulae and real Indian state examples like Bihar, Kerala, Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Aligns with National Population Policy 2000 objectives — universal immunization, female literacy, stable population by 2045.

Quick Chapter Recap: Population (NCERT Class 9 Geography Chapter 6)

Population refers to the total number of people living in a specific area at a given time. India is the world's second-most populous country with uneven distribution — densely populated Indo-Gangetic Plain versus sparsely populated Himalayas and deserts. Population density (people per square kilometer) varies from Bihar's 1,100 per km² to Arunachal Pradesh's 17 per km². Growth depends on birth rate, death rate, and migration; India's growth rate has slowed from 2.3 percent in the 1980s to about 1 percent today thanks to family planning and female education. Population composition describes age structure, sex ratio (females per 1,000 males), literacy rate, and occupational distribution. National Population Policy 2000 aims for stable population by 2045, universal immunization, 100 percent birth registration, and reduced infant mortality through voluntary family planning and women's empowerment.
  • Population size: total number of people in an area; India crossed 1.4 billion.
  • Distribution: uneven — dense in plains, sparse in deserts and mountains.
  • Density: people per km²; varies hugely across states.
  • Growth rate: (Births − Deaths) ÷ Population × 100; India's is ~1% now.
  • Composition: age, sex ratio, literacy, occupation structure.
  • NPP 2000: voluntary family planning, female education, stable population target.

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

This section tests factual recall and conceptual clarity on population distribution, growth, composition, and policy. Each question has four options; choose the most appropriate answer. These MCQs mirror the pattern seen in CBSE term exams and help you quickly revise key definitions, formulae, and India-specific data points like sex ratio trends, literacy gaps, and policy objectives. Attempt all six questions carefully, checking your answers against the answer key at the end of this worksheet to identify any knowledge gaps and revisit the relevant NCERT sections for deeper understanding before your exams.
  • Q1. Which state has the highest population density in India? (a) Uttar Pradesh (b) Bihar (c) West Bengal (d) Kerala
  • Q2. Sex ratio is defined as: (a) Males per 1,000 females (b) Females per 1,000 males (c) Total population ÷ area (d) Births − Deaths
  • Q3. National Population Policy was adopted in which year? (a) 1952 (b) 1976 (c) 2000 (d) 2010
  • Q4. Which factor does NOT influence population distribution? (a) Climate (b) Soil fertility (c) Currency exchange rate (d) Water availability
  • Q5. The term 'demographic transition' refers to: (a) Migration from rural to urban (b) Shift from high birth/death rates to low rates (c) Increase in literacy (d) Change in occupational structure
  • Q6. India's current growth rate is approximately: (a) 3.2% (b) 2.3% (c) 1.0% (d) 0.5%

Section B: Fill in the Blanks

Fill-in-the-blank questions reinforce precise terminology and numerical facts central to NCERT Class 9 Geography Chapter 6. Write the correct word or phrase in each blank space without looking at your textbook first, then verify against the answer key provided at the end of this worksheet. This exercise sharpens recall of key concepts like birth rate definition, literacy differentials between states, objectives of the National Population Policy, and the formula for population density. Mastering these terms is essential for scoring full marks in short-answer and long-answer questions during CBSE term exams and board examinations.
  • Q7. Population density is calculated by dividing total population by total ________.
  • Q8. The state with the lowest population density in India is ________.
  • Q9. Birth rate is the number of live births per ________ people per year.
  • Q10. The sex ratio in India is expressed as the number of ________ per 1,000 males.
  • Q11. The National Population Policy 2000 aims to achieve a stable population by the year ________.

Section C: Match the Following

Match each term in Column A with the correct description or example in Column B. This section tests your ability to link concepts with real-world applications and specific policy measures from the National Population Policy 2000. Matching exercises improve pattern recognition and help you see connections between population distribution drivers (like fertile soil and water availability) and actual geographic regions (Indo-Gangetic Plain). Write the letter of the correct match next to each number. Check your answers in the answer key section, and if you make mistakes, revisit the relevant NCERT passages to strengthen your conceptual map of population geography.
  • Column A: (12) High population density region, (13) Low population density region, (14) Infant mortality rate, (15) Literacy rate, (16) NPP 2000 objective
  • Column B: (a) Arunachal Pradesh, (b) Deaths of babies before age 1 per 1,000 live births, (c) Bihar, (d) Universal immunization, (e) Percentage who can read and write

Section D: Short Answer Questions (3-4 marks each)

Short-answer questions require you to explain concepts in 60-80 words, demonstrating understanding rather than rote memory. Address the question directly, use proper geographical terminology from NCERT Class 9 Geography, and cite examples where asked (like naming Indian states or policy measures). These questions typically carry 3-4 marks in CBSE term exams and demand clarity, accuracy, and brevity. Practice writing within the word limit, organizing your answer into 2-3 concise points or a short paragraph. Use bullet points if it improves readability. Compare your answers with the answer key to ensure you have not missed key elements such as formulae, definitions, or official policy objectives.
  • Q17. Define population density and explain why it varies across India. (3 marks)
  • Q18. What is sex ratio? Why is it a matter of concern in some Indian states? (3 marks)
  • Q19. State any three immediate objectives of the National Population Policy 2000. (3 marks)
  • Q20. Distinguish between birth rate and death rate. (3 marks)
  • Q21. Explain the term 'population composition' with two examples. (4 marks)

Section E: Long Answer / HOTS Questions (5 marks each)

Long-answer and Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) questions assess your ability to analyze, compare, and synthesize information from across the chapter. Aim for 120-150 words per answer, structuring your response with an introduction, 3-4 body points supported by examples or data, and a brief conclusion if appropriate. These questions often ask 'Why' or 'How' rather than 'What', pushing you to think critically about causes, consequences, and interrelationships. For instance, explaining how population composition affects planning requires linking age structure to schools and healthcare, sex ratio to social issues, and literacy to economic growth. Use real Indian examples (states, Census data, NPP targets) to strengthen your answer. Cross-check with the detailed answer key to ensure depth and accuracy.
  • Q22. Explain how population distribution in India is influenced by physical and socio-economic factors. Provide examples. (5 marks)
  • Q23. 'Population growth has both positive and negative impacts on development.' Discuss this statement with reference to India. (5 marks)
  • Q24. How does population composition help in planning for a country's development? Discuss with reference to age structure, sex ratio, and literacy. (5 marks)

Section F: Case-Study Based Question

Case-study questions mirror the CBSE competency-based assessment pattern introduced from 2023 onwards. Read the short passage carefully, extract relevant data, and answer sub-questions that test comprehension, application, and inference. These questions often integrate Chapter 6 Population with real-life scenarios or government reports. Practice identifying key numbers (birth rate, death rate, sex ratio) and policy interventions (NPP measures, literacy campaigns). This format builds critical reading and analytical skills essential for board exams and competitive tests. Answer each sub-question in 20-30 words unless a longer response is specified. Verify your answers in the answer key to ensure you interpreted the case correctly and applied population concepts accurately.
  • Case Study: District X has a population of 500,000, area 2,000 km², birth rate 25 per 1,000, death rate 7 per 1,000, and sex ratio 920. The literacy rate is 68%, with male literacy 78% and female literacy 58%.
  • Q25. Calculate the population density of District X. (1 mark)
  • Q26. What is the natural increase in population per year? (2 marks)
  • Q27. Identify two concerns regarding the population composition of District X and suggest one measure each to address them. (2 marks)

Answer Key with Explanations

This comprehensive answer key provides correct answers and brief explanations for every question in the worksheet, enabling self-assessment and independent learning. Compare your responses point-by-point, noting where you lost marks or misunderstood a concept. Use the explanations to fill knowledge gaps before consulting your NCERT textbook or Class 9 Geography notes. Reviewing mistakes is the fastest way to improve performance in CBSE term exams. For numerical questions, verify each step of your calculation. For descriptive answers, check that you included definitions, examples, and logical flow. If you score below 70 percent on this worksheet, revise the entire chapter again and attempt a second round after two days to consolidate learning and boost retention.
  • A1. (b) Bihar — Bihar has the highest density (~1,100 people/km²) due to fertile Gangetic plains.
  • A2. (b) Females per 1,000 males — Sex ratio = (Females ÷ Males) × 1,000.
  • A3. (c) 2000 — National Population Policy adopted in May 2000.
  • A4. (c) Currency exchange rate — Distribution depends on physical (climate, soil, water) and socio-economic (jobs, infrastructure) factors, not currency.
  • A5. (b) Shift from high birth/death rates to low rates — Demographic transition occurs as societies develop.
  • A6. (c) 1.0% — India's current growth rate is approximately 1% per year.
  • A7. area (in square kilometers)
  • A8. Arunachal Pradesh (~17 people/km²)
  • A9. 1,000
  • A10. females
  • A11. 2045
  • A12→c, A13→a, A14→b, A15→e, A16→d
  • A17. Population density = Total population ÷ Total area. Varies because fertile plains (Indo-Gangetic) have water and agriculture, attracting dense settlement; deserts (Thar) and mountains (Himalayas) are sparsely populated due to harsh climate and limited resources.
  • A18. Sex ratio = Females per 1,000 males. Concern in states like Haryana and Punjab where ratio is ~870-900 due to female infanticide, preference for sons, and sex-selective abortion, leading to social imbalance and crime.
  • A19. (i) Universal immunization of children. (ii) 100% registration of births, deaths, marriages. (iii) Universal access to contraception and family planning services.
  • A20. Birth rate = live births per 1,000 people per year. Death rate = deaths per 1,000 people per year. Birth rate indicates fertility; death rate indicates healthcare quality. Difference = natural increase.
  • A21. Population composition describes characteristics like age, gender, literacy, occupation. Examples: (i) Age composition — India has 40% under 15, requiring schools. (ii) Sex ratio — Kerala has balanced ratio; Haryana skewed, needing gender sensitization.
  • A22. Physical factors: fertile soil (Punjab plains), water (Ganga basin), moderate climate attract dense population; deserts (Rajasthan), mountains (Himachal) are sparse. Socio-economic factors: jobs (Mumbai, Bangalore), infrastructure (roads, hospitals) draw migrants. Result: Indo-Gangetic Plain densely populated; Himalayan and desert regions sparse.
  • A23. Positive impacts: larger workforce, demographic dividend if educated, market expansion. Negative impacts: strain on resources (water, schools, jobs), unemployment, poverty, environmental degradation if growth outpaces development. India's slowing growth (1%) and focus on skill development aim to harness benefits while mitigating challenges.
  • A24. Age structure: high youth population needs schools, colleges; aging population needs healthcare, pensions. Sex ratio: skewed ratio requires gender sensitization, women's safety. Literacy: low literacy limits skill development, economic growth; high literacy boosts productivity, innovation. Planning education, health, employment based on composition ensures balanced development.
  • A25. Density = 500,000 ÷ 2,000 = 250 people per km².
  • A26. Natural increase = Birth rate − Death rate = 25 − 7 = 18 per 1,000. Actual increase = (18 ÷ 1,000) × 500,000 = 9,000 people per year.
  • A27. Concerns: (i) Low sex ratio (920) — measure: awareness campaigns against female foeticide, incentives for girl child. (ii) Low female literacy (58%) — measure: promote girls' education through scholarships and mid-day meals.

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Tips to Score Full Marks in Population Chapter Questions

First, memorize key formulae: population density, growth rate, sex ratio. Write them at the top of your answer sheet during exams so you do not forget under pressure. Second, use precise NCERT terms like 'demographic transition', 'natural increase', 'occupational composition' rather than casual language. Third, quote real data: Bihar's density, Kerala's literacy rate, NPP 2000 objectives — examiners reward specificity. Fourth, structure long answers with clear headings or numbered points; it improves readability and ensures you cover all sub-parts. Fifth, for case-study questions, underline key numbers in the passage and label your calculations step-by-step. Sixth, practice writing within time limits; allocate 5 minutes for a 3-mark question, 8-10 minutes for a 5-mark question. Finally, revise this worksheet twice before your term exam, checking the answer key each time to reinforce learning.
  • Memorize formulae: density, growth rate, sex ratio — write them first in exams.
  • Use NCERT terms: 'demographic transition', 'natural increase', 'occupational composition'.
  • Quote real data: Bihar density, Kerala literacy, NPP 2000 year and objectives.
  • Structure answers: use headings, bullet points, numbered steps for clarity.
  • Label calculations: show working step-by-step in numerical questions.
  • Time management: 5 min for 3-mark, 8-10 min for 5-mark questions.
  • Revise twice: attempt worksheet, check answer key, repeat after two days.

Frequently asked questions

What topics are covered in CBSE Class 9 Geography Chapter 6 Population?+
Chapter 6 covers population size and distribution, population density and its variation across India, factors influencing population growth (birth rate, death rate, migration), population composition (age, sex ratio, literacy, occupation), and the National Population Policy 2000 with its objectives for sustainable development.
How much time should I allocate to complete this worksheet?+
Allocate 90 minutes total: 10 minutes for MCQs, 8 minutes for fill-in-the-blanks, 5 minutes for matching, 25 minutes for five short answers, 30 minutes for three long answers, and 12 minutes for the case study. This mirrors CBSE term exam time distribution.
What is the difficulty level of this Population worksheet?+
Difficulty level is Medium to challenging. MCQs and fill-in-the-blanks test basic recall; short answers require conceptual clarity; long HOTS questions and the case study demand analysis, application, and synthesis, matching the latest CBSE competency-based pattern for Class 9.
Why is sex ratio important in population studies?+
Sex ratio (females per 1,000 males) indicates gender balance. A skewed ratio below 950 signals issues like female infanticide, sex-selective abortion, or discrimination. It affects social stability, marriage markets, women's education, and requires policy intervention like awareness campaigns and legal enforcement.
What are the main objectives of National Population Policy 2000?+
Immediate objectives: universal immunization, 100% birth/death registration, universal access to contraception. Long-term objectives: stable population by 2045, infant mortality below 30 per 1,000, universal primary education, 100% marriage registration, and gender equality in literacy and opportunities.
How do I calculate population density and growth rate?+
Population density = Total population ÷ Total area (km²). Growth rate (%) = [(Births − Deaths) ÷ Total population] × 100. For example, if a region has 2 million people in 10,000 km², density = 200/km². If births = 40,000 and deaths = 10,000, growth rate = 1.5%.
Which Indian states have high and low population densities?+
High density: Bihar (~1,100/km²), West Bengal (~1,000/km²), Kerala (~860/km²) due to fertile plains, water, and urbanization. Low density: Arunachal Pradesh (~17/km²), Sikkim (~86/km²), Mizoram due to mountainous terrain, harsh climate, and limited agriculture.
How does population composition help in development planning?+
Age composition determines demand for schools (young population) or healthcare (aging population). Sex ratio guides gender-focused policies. Literacy rates shape skill-development programs. Occupational structure informs job creation in agriculture, industry, or services. Planners allocate resources based on these compositions.
What are the causes of uneven population distribution in India?+
Physical causes: fertile soil (Indo-Gangetic Plain), water availability (river basins), moderate climate attract dense settlement; deserts (Thar) and mountains (Himalayas) are sparse. Socio-economic causes: jobs, infrastructure, healthcare, and education in cities draw migrants, leaving rural areas less populated.
How can CBSETUTOR.ai help me with this worksheet?+
CBSETUTOR.ai provides a 24×7 AI tutor where you can upload photos of any question from this worksheet and receive instant, step-by-step solutions. It covers all NCERT Class 9 Geography chapters and every subject from classes 6-12 at ₹999/month with a 3-day free trial, making doubt-solving easy and affordable.

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