Q.Population characteristics of Andhra Pradesh.

Andhra Pradesh has a population of about 4.9 crore (2011 Census, residual state), largely rural, with a favourable sex ratio, a moderate and declining growth rate, a literacy rate of around 67 per cent, a large working-age group and a notable share of Scheduled Castes and Tribes.

The population characteristics of a state describe its size, growth, distribution, sex ratio, literacy and composition. For Andhra Pradesh, these are studied under the Economy of Andhra Pradesh in the AP Intermediate 2nd-year Economics course, using mainly the 2011 Census (the figures relate to the residual state after the 2014 bifurcation).

Population characteristics of Andhra Pradesh:

1. Size of population. As per the 2011 Census, the residual state of Andhra Pradesh has a population of about 4.9 crore.

2. Rural-urban distribution. The population is predominantly rural, with a majority living in villages and depending on agriculture.

3. Sex ratio. The state has a favourable sex ratio, close to or above the national average, meaning a healthy number of females per thousand males.

4. Growth rate. The rate of population growth is moderate and has been declining as birth rates fall.

5. Literacy. The literacy rate is around 67 per cent, with male literacy higher than female literacy, leaving scope for improvement.

6. Age structure. A large share of the population is in the working-age group, offering a demographic dividend if properly skilled and employed.

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