Previous Year Question
Consider the following in relation to causes of urbanization and select the correct answer from the code given below:
High rate of emigration from rural to urban areas.
Increasing number of educational institutions in cities.
High rate of industrialization.
High standard of living in rural area.
Codes:
1, 2 and 3 are correct.
2, 3 and 4 are correct.
1, 2 and 4 are correct.
1, 3 and 4 are correct.
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
Statement 1 is correct. Migration from rural to urban areas is an important cause of urbanisation. Cities attract people through employment, better income opportunities, transport, health, education and other facilities. The Government of India has also identified continuous migration as an important contributor to the growth of large cities in the context of Census 2011.
Statement 2 is correct. Greater availability of universities, colleges, technical institutes and other educational institutions in cities attracts students, teachers and associated service-sector activities. This can contribute to population concentration and urban expansion.
Statement 3 is correct. Industrialisation and Urbanisation are closely related. Industries generate employment, transport, housing, trade and associated services, encouraging the development and expansion of urban settlements around industrial centres. Government planning literature also recognises industrialisation and changing occupational patterns as major drivers of urbanisation.
Statement 4 is incorrect. A high standard of living in rural areas does not normally push people out of villages. On the contrary, inadequate employment opportunities, weaker infrastructure and lower living standards act as push factors for rural-to-urban migration. Better rural living conditions can reduce migration pressure.