Population Studies

Description

About the Book

“Population Studies ” is a comprehensive textbook designed for students and scholars seeking to understand the complex relationships between human populations and their environments. Authored by leading experts in the field, this text offers a thorough exploration of demographic concepts, theories, and methods, making it an essential resource for geography, sociology, and urban studies courses. The book is organized into key sections that cover foundational topics, including population distribution, migration patterns, fertility and mortality rates, nuptiality, migration, and the socio-economic implications of demographic changes. Each chapter incorporates real-world case studies, maps, and data visualizations to illustrate complex ideas that enhance student engagement. Special focus is given to contemporary issues such as urbanization, globalization, aging populations, and the impact of climate change on migration. The text also emphasizes the importance of policy implications, inspiring critical thinking about how population dynamics affect sustainability, resource allocation, and community planning. With end-of-chapter discussion questions, recommended readings, and an extensive glossary, “Population Geography” equips readers with the analytical tools necessary to examine population trends and their geographic significance. This textbook not only serves as an academic guide but also inspires a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing populations in an increasingly interconnected world.

About the Author

Dr. Vijaya P. Khairkar is a renowned population geographer whose research focuses on the intricate relationships between demographic changes and spatial patterns. With a Ph.D. in Geography, she has dedicated her career to studying population dynamics, migration, and urbanization, contributing valuable insights to the field. Her work emphasizes the importance of understanding population trends in addressing social and environmental challenges. Dr. Khairkar has published numerous articles and books, and she actively engages in academic discourse through conferences and workshops. Passionate about teaching, she inspires her students to think critically about the implications of population studies in today’s world. Her commitment to integrating theory with practical applications makes her a respected figure in both academic and policy-making circles.

Contents

• Origin and Development of Population Geography 3
• Difference Between Population Geography and Demography 5
• Approaches to the Study of Population Geography 6
• Sources of Population Data 6
• Major Sample Surveys in India 7
• Population Theories 7
• Religion and Population Issues 9
• Optimum Population Theory    12
• The Theory of Demographic Transition 14
• Demographic Transition Theory and Criticism 16

• Population Parameter for India 2011 19
• Age Composition in India 20
• Sex Ratio of India 21
• Caste Composition in India 2011 22
• Literacy in India 22
• Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) 23

• Introduction 25
• Basic Concepts in Fertility Studies 25
• Sources of Data 26
• Theory of Diffusion or Cultural Lag 27
• Becker’s Theory 30
• Measures of Fertility 34
• Fertility Situation in India 40

• Sources of Data  42
• The Expectation of Life at Birth 45
• Endogenous Factors 45
• Mortality in India 47
• 5. Migration 49
• Measures of Migration  50
• Types of Migration 50
• Push-Pull Hypothesis 51

• Introduction 55
• Sources and Quality of Data Sources of data: 57
• Measures of Nuptiality 58
• Concepts and Definition of Terms 58
• India’s Case 63
• Interpretation of Age at Marriage for Women in India (1992-2022) 70
• Social and Economic Factors 71

• India’s Population Policy 73
• The Family Planning Programs 77
• The Extension Approach 80
• The Camp Approach 83
• The Reproductive and Child Health Approach 84
• Reproductive Health 85
• Population and Sustainable Development Goals 87