Explanations:
To understand why Sikkim is the state with the least population in India, it is important to consider several factors including geographical size, historical population trends, and demographic characteristics. Sikkim is a small state located in the northeastern part of India, bordering Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. It covers an area of approximately 7,096 square kilometers, which is relatively small compared to other Indian states. The state's mountainous terrain and limited arable land have historically limited its population growth and density.
According to the 2011 census, Sikkim had a population of around 610,577, making it the least populated state in India. This is significantly lower than other small states such as Goa (1.4 million) and Mizoram (1.1 million). The low population of Sikkim can be attributed to its geographical constraints, which have historically limited agricultural and industrial development, thus reducing the potential for population growth.
In contrast, Madhya Pradesh, which is a large state in central India, has a much larger population of around 72.6 million as per the 2011 census. Similarly, Nagaland, another northeastern state, has a population of around 1.98 million. These states, despite being smaller in size compared to Madhya Pradesh, still have significantly larger populations than Sikkim due to their more favorable geographical and economic conditions.
It is important to note that population statistics can change over time due to various factors such as migration, birth rates, and death rates. However, as of the 2011 census, Sikkim remains the state with the least population in India. Understanding these demographic trends and geographical factors is crucial for comprehending the distribution of population across different states in India.