Question

In which year was the first complete Census of India conducted?

• A. 1872
• B. 1881
• C. 1901
• D. 1951

Hint:

Important Census years: 1872 -- First Census attempt (Lord Mayo)
1881 -- First complete synchronous Census (Lord Ripon)
1951 -- First Census after Independence
2011 -- Latest completed Census of India

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: A Census is the official process of collecting, recording, and analyzing demographic, social, and economic information about the population of a country. In India, the Census is conducted every ten years under the authority of the Government of India. It provides essential information related to population size, literacy, occupation, sex ratio, urbanization, and many other socio-economic indicators.

Step 1: Understanding the early history of Census in India.
The first attempt to collect population-related information in India was made during British rule. In the year 1872, Lord Mayo initiated population enumeration in different regions of India. However, this exercise was not conducted simultaneously across the entire country. Different provinces collected data at different times and through different methods. Therefore, the Census of 1872 is regarded as the first non-synchronous or incomplete census.

Step 2: Identifying the first complete Census.
The first complete and synchronous Census of India was conducted in the year 1881 during the tenure of Lord Ripon. The term “synchronous” means that the Census was conducted at the same time throughout the country using a uniform procedure and methodology. This Census marked the beginning of the regular decennial Census system in India. Hence, 1881 is considered the first complete Census of India.

Step 3: Analyzing the remaining options.

• 1901: This was an important Census conducted under Herbert Risley, but it was not the first Census.
• 1951: This was the first Census conducted after India's independence. Thus, these options are incorrect.

Step 4: Final conclusion.
The first complete and synchronous Census of India was conducted in: \[ \boxed{1881} \] Therefore, the correct option is: \[ \boxed{\text{(B) 1881}} \]