Explanations:The question asks for the smallest state by population in India. To understand this, it is important to know the population sizes of the states listed in the options. The population of a state is a measure of the number of people living within its boundaries, and it is typically determined through a national census.
India conducts a national census every ten years to gather demographic data, including population counts. The most recent census data available is from 2011. According to the 2011 census, the population of Sikkim is approximately 610,577, making it the smallest state by population in India.
Let's examine the population sizes of the other states mentioned in the options:
1. Tripura: The population of Tripura is approximately 3.6 million people as per the 2011 census. This is significantly larger than Sikkim's population.
2. Goa: The population of Goa is approximately 1.5 million people as per the 2011 census. This is also larger than Sikkim's population.
3. Manipur: The population of Manipur is approximately 2.8 million people as per the 2011 census. This is larger than Sikkim's population as well.
It is important to note that while Sikkim is the smallest state by population, it is not necessarily the smallest state by area. The size of a state in terms of area and population can vary, and these two factors are not always directly correlated. For example, Goa is smaller in area than Sikkim but has a larger population.
Understanding the population sizes of different states is crucial for various competitive examinations, particularly those related to general knowledge and geography. It is also important for planning and resource allocation in governmental and administrative contexts.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is Sikkim, as it has the smallest population among the given options.