Reviewing the Exploring Society India and Beyond Class 8 Solutions and Class 8 Social Science SST Part 2 Chapter 6 Dynamics of Population Question Answer NCERT Solutions before exams can boost your confidence.
Dynamics of Population Class 8 Questions and Answers
Dynamics of Population Class 8 Question Answer
The Big Questions (Page 167)
Question 1.
What is demography?
Answer:
Demography is the study of the composition of human populations, focusing on their composition in terms of factors such as age, sex, occupation, and religion. It also examines how these characteristics change over time because of births, deaths, and migration.
Question 2.
What are some important concepts of demography?
Answer:
Some important concepts of demography include population size, population structure, and population composition. It also involves the study of age, gender, education, birth rate, fertility rate, death rate, and migration. These concepts help us understand how population changes over time and how those changes affect society.
Question 3.
How has the population of India and the world changed over time?
Answer:
The world population grew from 2.5 billion in 1950 to 8.2 billion in 2025. In 2023, India surpassed China to become the most populous country in the world. The population of India increased from 361 million in 1951 to about 1,460 million, or 1.46 billion, in 2025. This demonstrates that both India and the world have experienced rapid population growth over time.
Question 4.
How do population trends shape societies and economies?
Answer:
Population trends strongly influence societies and economies. A large proportion of young people can create a demographic dividend, which may drive economic growth if sufficient job opportunities are available. On the other hand, an ageing population can place greater pressure on healthcare system and lead to labour shortages, potentially slowing economic growth.
Class 8 Dynamics of Population Question Answer
Let’s Explore
Question 1.
Ask your family members if they have observed any of the following changes around them over the years:
→ farmland or green spaces being turned into new buildings for housing
→ more crowded streets; more cars and buses; and traffic congestion in public spaces
→ changing types of homes (e.g., smaller apartments; more single-family homes)
What could be the possible reasons behind these changes? (Page 172)
Answer:
Possible reasons behind these changes are:
- Urbanisation and Housing Demand
- As cities expand, farmland and green spaces are often converted into housing and commercial buildings to accommodate growing populations.
- Rising migration from rural to urban areas increases the demand for housing and infrastructure.
Population Growth and Mobility
- More people means more vehicles on the road, leading to crowded streets, traffic congestion, and pressure on public transport.
- Economic growth allows more families to afford cars, further adding to traffic.
Changing Lifestyles and Family Structures
- With smaller family sizes and nuclear households becoming common, there is greater demand for apartments and single-family homes.
- Rising land prices and limited space in cities encourage the construction of smaller, high-rise apartments instead of large houses.
- As incomes rise, people aspire to better housing and modern amenities, which reshapes the types of homes being built.
- Infrastructure projects and real estate development are driven by investment opportunities in growing economies.
Question 2.
Why is the replacement rate 2.1 and not 2 (parents get replaced by children)? What are the situations in which the replacement rate can he higher? (Page 173)
Answer:
The replacement rate is 2.1 and not exactly 2 because some children may not survive to adulthood and therefore may not replace their parents in the next generation. The extra 0.1 accounts for child mortality and other losses. The replacement rate can be higher in countries where healthcare facilities are poor, and child survival rates are lower.
Question 3.
Observe fertility and literacy rates in select Indian states in Fig. (below). Do you find a relationship between the two indicators? Prepare a report on your observations and possible reasons for the same. (Pages 175 – 176)
| State/UT | Fertility rate | Literacy rate among women (%) |
| Bihar | 3.0 | 55 |
| Uttar Pradesh | 2.4 | 66.1 |
| Jharkhand | 2.3 | 61.7 |
| Karnataka | 1.7 | 73.4 |
| Punjab | 1.6 | 79.4 |
| Delhi | 1.6 | 83.7 |
Fig: Fertility and literacy rate among women in select Indian states
Answer:
Yes, there is a clear relationship between fertility and literacy rates. States with higher literacy rates, especially female literacy, usually have lower fertility rates. Educated women often marry later, have better access to healthcare, and make informed family decisions. States with lower literacy often have higher fertility rates.
Question 4.
Census figures of 2001 as well as 2011 show the overall number of females per 1,000 males being much less than 1,000. Some states, however, had over 1,000 or near 1,000 (Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu). What might be the reasons for this? (Page 180)
Answer:
Some states have higher sex ratios because women in those states often have better access to healthcare, education, and social opportunities. Greater gender equality and better social awareness improve the survival and status of women. These conditions can lead to a more balanced or higher sex ratio compared with the national average.
Think About It
Question 1.
If many young people migrate from villages or smaller towns to cities, what changes take place in their native villages? (Page 177)
Answer:
When many young people migrate from villages or smaller towns to cities, their native villages often undergo significant changes. Agriculture and traditional occupations may suffer due to a shortage of labour, while families increasingly rely on remittances sent by migrants. The population left behind tends to be older, leading to an imbalance in age groups and weakening community participation in festivals and traditions. Local businesses may decline as demand decreases, and cultural practices such as folk art or oral storytelling risk fading away.
At the same time, migration can bring positive effects – remittances improve living standards, exposure to urban life introduces new ideas and technologies, and families often invest more in education. Thus, migration creates both challenges and opportunities, reshaping villages socially, economically, and culturally.
Question 2.
If the replacement rate is less than 2, what will the population pyramid look like? Will there ever be a situation where the number of children is less than the number of aged people? What is likely to happen to the population of such a country over time? (Page 183)
Answer:
If the replacement rate remains below 2 for a long period, the population pyramid develops a narrow base and a wider upper section. This means fewer children are being born while the elderly population increases. Over time, the number of children can become less than the number of older people, leading to a shrinking and ageing population.
Question 3.
Indian society has had the concept of ashrama dharma, where life is divided into four phases – brahmacharya, grihastashrama, vanaprasta and sanyasa. Though older people begin to withdraw from economic activities, they continue to play other important roles – share their knowledge and wisdom with family and society as needed. Cultural continuity becomes possible through their guidance in rituals, storytelling, etc. They hold knowledge that may not necessarily he in books. Can you think of all the ways in which older people in your neighbourhood contribute to their family and society? (Page 186)
Answer:
(Suggestive Answer) Older people contribute by sharing knowledge, values, and life experiences with younger generations. They often help in caring for children and guiding family decisions. They preserve traditions, customs, and stories that connect families to their cultural roots. Their experience can provide emotional support and social stability in the community.
Class 8 SST Part 2 Chapter 6 Question Answer
Questions and Activities (Pages 187 – 190)
Question 1.
Why is it important for a country to study its population through demography?
Answer:
It is important for a country to study its population through demography because it helps the government understand the size, structure, and changing nature of the population. Demographic study helps in planning schools, hospitals, roads, housing, and public transport according to the needs of the people. It also helps in managing water supply, electricity, and other essential services. Population data is useful for making policies that improve the quality of life of the people.
Question 2.
How can a low fertility rate affect a country’s future economy and workforce?
Answer:
A low fertility rate can reduce the number of children being born in a country. Over time, this leads to a smaller working-age population and a larger elderly population. As fewer young people enter the labour force, industries may face a shortage of workers. The government may also have to spend more money on healthcare and old-age support. This can slow down the economic growth and put extreme pressure on the country’s economy.
Question 3.
Do you think a high birth rate is always good for a country? Why or why not?
Answer:
No, a high birth rate is not always good for a country. A high birth rate can cause rapid population growth, which can put pressure on available natural resources such as land, water, and food. It can also increase the demand for housing, schools, hospitals, and jobs. If resources do not increase along with population, the standard of living may decline. Therefore, balanced population growth is more beneficial than uncontrolled or rapid growth.
Question 4.
Do you think it’s better to have more people or fewer people in a country? What are the challenges countries face in the case of a fast-growing or shrinking population?
Answer:
Countries with a fast-growing population may face problems such as overcrowding, unemployment, shortages of food, and pressure on public services. Cities may become congested, and pollution may increase. Countries with a shrinking population may face an ageing society, fewer workers and higher healthcare costs. A smaller workforce can reduce production and economic growth. Both fast-growing and shrinking populations create different social and economic challenges.
Question 5.
How does the age structure of a country affect the kind of jobs and services it needs? Explain with examples.
Answer:
The age structure of a country determines the type of services and jobs that are needed. If a country has a large number of children, more schools, teachers, and childcare services are required. If a country has a large working-age population, it needs more industries and employment opportunities. If a country has a large elderly population, it needs better healthcare services, old-age homes and pension systems. Therefore, age structure plays an important role in national planning.
Question 6.
Why do you think families are generally getting smaller? Does having fewer children ensure better education and health for them? How does it affect families and society?
Answer:
Families are generally becoming smaller because people are becoming more educated and aware of family planning. Women are joining the workforce, and many couples prefer to have fewer children due to the rising cost of living. Smaller families can provide more time, attention, and financial support to each child. This often improves children’s access to better education, nutrition and healthcare. However, the quality of care also depends on the economic condition of the family.
Question 7.
Observe the graph below showing changes in life expectancy across gender in India and answer the questions given below:
(a) Has the life expectancy in India increased? If yes, what could be the reasons?
(b) What was the life expectancy of males and females in 2010?
Life expectancy at birth, male and female
Answer:
(a) Yes, life expectancy in India has increased over time. This has happened because of better medical facilities, improved nutrition, and increased awareness about health. Vaccination programmes have reduced the spread of diseases. Cleaner drinking water and better sanitation have also improved living conditions. All these factors have helped people live longer lives.
(b) In 2010, the life expectancy of both males and females was between 65 and 70 years. Females had a slightly higher life expectancy than males. This shows that health conditions in the country have improved steadily over time.
Question 8.
What is a demographic dividend, and how does it benefit a country? What do you think India needs to do today to make the most of its demographic dividend before 2050?
Answer:
Demographic dividend refers to the economic advantage that a country gets when a large part of its population belongs to the working-age group. When more people are working and fewer people are dependent, national income can increase. This can improve economic growth and development. To make the most of this opportunity before 2050, India needs to improve education, skill development, and healthcare. The country also needs to create enough employment opportunities for young people and encourage women to participate in the workforce.
Question 9.
Choose two countries (for example: India and Japan or Nigeria and Italy). Find out their:
Population size
Fertility rate
Life expectancy
Age distribution
How are they different? H hat might be the reasons behind these differences? For instance, find out how countries with ageing populations are managing this.
Answer:
India has a youthful, fast-growing population, while Japan and Italy are aging with low fertility, and Nigeria is youthful with very high fertility but low life expectancy. These contrasts highlight different demographic challenges: India and Nigeria face pressures of youth bulges, while Japan and Italy struggle with shrinking, aging populations.
Comparative Demographics (2026)
India vs Japan: India’s population is over 12 times larger and much younger, while Japan has one of the world’s oldest populations. Japan’s fertility rate (1.2) is far below replacement, leading to population decline, whereas India’s fertility rate (1.9) is near replacement but still supports growth.
India vs Nigeria: Nigeria’s fertility rate (4.2) is more than double India’s, and its median age is just 18.3 years, compared to India’s 29.2. Nigeria’s life expectancy (55 years) is far lower than India’s 72.7, showing challenges in healthcare and living conditions. Nigeria’s youth-heavy pyramid contrasts with India’s more balanced structure.
India vs Italy: Both countries have similar fertility rates (~1.2-1.9), but India’s median age is 20 years younger. Italy, like Japan, faces aging and shrinking population, while India sti 11 has a demographic dividend with a large working-age population.
Question 10.
Imagine you are a researcher who intends to study migration patterns in your locality. Make a questionnaire to collect data on the following questions.
Name of the person
Age of the person
Occupation of the person
Place of residence
Number of years lived in the place
List the factors contributing to migration, such as lack of facilities, poor infrastructure, limited job opportunities, and so on.
Answer:
By adding the following points in the questionnaire, it will help collect useful data on migration patterns.
Have you migrated from another place?
Yes / No
If yes, what type of migration was it?
→ Rural to Urban
→ Urban to Rural
→ Rural to Rural
→ Urban to Urban
What were the main reasons for migration?
→ Lack of facilities
→ Poor infrastructure
→ Limited job opportunities
→ Better education
→ Better healthcare
→ Family reasons
→ Others: …………………………
What problems did you face after migration?
…………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………….
Has your living condition improved after migration?
→ Yes / No (How) …………………………….
Do you plan to stay here permanently?
→ Yes / No
Question 11.
Draw a population pyramid on graph paper for India using the data given in the following table.
Age-group-wise percentage distribution of population (estimated for 2021)
| Age Group | Male | Female |
| 0-4 | 8.6 | 8.2 |
| 5-9 | 8.9 | 8.4 |
| 10-14 | 8.7 | 8.6 |
| 15-19 | 9.3 | 9 |
| 20-24 | 9.5 | 9.1 |
| 25-29 | 9 | 8.6 |
| 30-34 | 8.1 | 8 |
| 35-39 | 7.1 | 7.4 |
| 40-44 | 6.3 | 6.7 |
| 45-49 | 5.7 | 6 |
| 50-54 | 5 | 5.2 |
| 55-59 | 4.2 | 4.2 |
| 60-64 | 3.2 | 3.3 |
| 65-69 | 2.4 | 2.7 |
| 70-74 | 1.8 | 2.1 |
| 75 -79 | 1.2 | 1.4 |
| 80+ | 0.9 | 1.2 |
Answer:
Population Pyramid (India, 2021)
Steps to draw the Population Pyramid
- Take a graph paper and draw one vertical line in the centre.
- Write the age groups on the vertical axis from bottom to top.
- Write the percentage of population on the horizontal axis on both sides.
- Show male population on the left side of the central line.
- Show female population on the right side of the central line.
- Use the percentages given in the table to draw horizontal bars for each age group.
- Shade both sides neatly and write a suitable title.
Question 12.
Observe the population pyramid for Japan in 2023. What can you infer from this? Write your observations.
Answer:
The population pyramid of Japan in 2023 shows that Japan has an ageing population. The narrow base shows that fewer children are being born, which means the birth rate is low.
The wider middle and upper sections show that a large number of people belong to older age groups. This means life expectancy in Japan is high.
The pyramid also shows that the population of elderly women is more than elderly men. This population pattern may create problems such as a shrinking workforce and higher healthcare costs in the future.