The Exclusive Guide to Population Geography by R.C. Chandna
Introduction
If you are a student of geography, particularly in India, R.C. Chandna is a name that needs no introduction. His book, Population Geography, is widely regarded as the "Bible" for understanding the spatial aspects of human population. It is a staple resource for university students and aspirants of competitive exams like the UPSC (Geography Optional) and NET/JRF.
If you cannot afford the physical book, use your university library’s digital access, request a review copy from the publisher, or purchase a used older edition (just be aware the data will be outdated). For serious competitive exam aspirants, buying a new physical copy is an investment that pays dividends.
Theoretical Models: Discussion of the Malthusian and Marxian theories of population growth, alongside the Demographic Transition Model.
6. Population Composition
This includes age-sex pyramids, literacy rates, workforce participation, and rural-urban composition. Chandna’s discussion on the "demographic dividend" and India’s aging population in the south vs. youthful population in the north is a frequently cited section in exam answers.
Demographic Dynamics: Deep dives into fertility, mortality, and the socio-economic factors driving migration.
- Focus: Evolution of population policy in India (from family planning to family welfare).
- Current Affairs: Link this with the National Population Policy (NPP) 2000 and recent government initiatives.
