RAS question
According to Census 2011, which state has the lowest literacy rate?
Correct answer: (B) Bihar.
According to Census 2011 literacy data placed before the Rajya Sabha, Bihar had the lowest literacy rate among Indian states.
Explanation
Bihar is the correct answer. The Rajya Sabha record dated 12 August 2013 gives Census 2011 state-wise literacy rates for the population aged seven years and above. It records Bihar's total literacy rate as 61.80%, male literacy at 71.20%, and female literacy at 51.50%, showing a clear gender gap. Among the other options, Arunachal Pradesh is at 65.38%, Rajasthan at 66.11%, and Jharkhand at 66.41%. All three rates are higher than Bihar's, so Bihar has the lowest literacy rate in this Census 2011 comparison.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Rajasthan is not correct because Census 2011 records its total literacy rate at 66.11%, above Bihar's 61.80%.
- (C) Arunachal Pradesh is not correct because its total literacy rate is 65.38%, above Bihar's 61.80%.
- (D) Jharkhand is not correct because its total literacy rate is 66.41%, above Bihar's 61.80%.
Concept
This question tests Census 2011 literacy indicators, especially state-wise comparisons, gender gaps, and regional disparities. RAS asks such facts because literacy is a key human-development indicator used in Indian population geography and social-development analysis.