Q.Define the term 'death rate'. What are the causes of low death rate?

Death rate = deaths per 1,000 population in a year. It has fallen due to better medical care, control of epidemics/famines, improved nutrition, clean water and sanitation, education and a higher standard of living.

Meaning of Death Rate:

The death rate (crude death rate) is the number of deaths occurring per 1,000 persons of the population during a year. It is calculated as:

$\text{Death rate} = \frac{\text{Number of deaths in a year}}{\text{Total (mid-year) population}} \times 1000$

A falling death rate, together with a high birth rate, has been the main reason for India's rapid population growth after 1921.

Causes of low death rate:

• Better medical and health facilities: Modern hospitals, medicines, vaccination and improved treatment have reduced deaths from many diseases.
• Control of epidemics and diseases: Diseases like plague, cholera, malaria and smallpox that once caused mass deaths are now largely controlled.
• Control of famines: Better food production, storage and distribution (and relief measures) have reduced deaths from famine.
• Improved food supply and nutrition: Greater availability of food and better nutrition have improved health and reduced deaths, especially of infants. …