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UPSC Prelims 2001 · Indian Geography · People and Settlements
Among the following, which one has the minimum population on the basis of data of Census of India, 2001?
- (a) Chandigarh
- (b) Mizoram
- (c) Puducherry
- (d) Sikkim
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: (d) Sikkim
Sikkim had about 5.4 lakh — the smallest.
The idea
Minimum population asks for the smallest absolute count, not the smallest area. A compact Union Territory can hold more people than a larger mountain State. Compare all four units at the same Census 2001 reference date.
Why the others are wrong
(a) Chandigarh had about 9 lakh people.
(b) Mizoram had about 8.9 lakh.
(c) Puducherry had about 9.7 lakh — the largest of the four.
The trap
Tiny UTs feel less populous than a State, but Sikkim has the fewest people of any State.
Also know
Sikkim is a Himalayan State; Mizoram is a north-eastern hill State. Chandigarh is a city Union Territory, while Puducherry consists of separated enclaves. Population, area and density are three different comparisons, and a place can be low on one but high on another.
🔒 Least populous State: Sikkim. Least populous UT: Lakshadweep.
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