Previous Year Question
Which one of the following classes of towns are included in the category of small towns by the Census of India?
Class VI
Class V and VI
Class IV, V and VI
Class III, IV, V and VI
Correct Answer: D
Detailed Solution
According to the Census of India, Class IV, V, and VI towns are included in the category of Small Towns. These towns have populations below 20,000. This classification is based on the population size of urban settlements.
The Census of India divides towns into six classes according to population size:
Class | Population |
Class I | 100,000 or more |
Class II | 50,000–99,999 |
Class III | 20,000–49,999 |
Class IV | 10,000–19,999 |
Class V | 5,000–9,999 |
Class VI | Below 5,000 |
Class I towns are known as cities with populations of one lakh or more, while Class II and III represent relatively medium-sized urban settlements. Classes IV, V, and VI are included in the category of small towns. Therefore, the option that includes Class III among small towns is incorrect.
Population-based classification of towns is useful for assessing urbanisation, analysing the distribution of urban populations, and planning infrastructure facilities. This classification is distinct from the categorisation of urban settlements into Statutory Towns and Census Towns.