According to the 2011 census, which of the following states/union territories has the highest percentage of Muslim population?

Appeared in: DSSSB October 2024

Explanation

According to the 2011 Census of India, the Union Territory of Lakshadweep has the highest proportion of its population identifying as Muslim.
The Muslim population in Lakshadweep is approximately 96.58%, making it the only majority-Muslim union territory in India.
This question specifically asks for the 'highest percentage', not the highest absolute number. While states like Uttar Pradesh have a larger total number of Muslims, their percentage relative to the state's total population is significantly lower (19.26%).

Option A: Arunachal Pradesh has a very small Muslim population, accounting for only about 1.95% of its total population as per the 2011 census.
Option B: Mizoram is a predominantly Christian state. Its Muslim population is minimal, making up only about 1.35% of the total population in 2011.
Option C: In the undivided state of Andhra Pradesh (as of the 2011 census), the Muslim population was approximately 9.56%. While this is a significant minority, it is far lower than the percentage in Lakshadweep.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Indian Demographics and Census Data as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While this is a general knowledge question, understanding the demographic and religious composition of different regions is crucial for public health planning and delivering culturally sensitive healthcare.
Knowledge of local customs, dietary practices (e.g., Halal), and beliefs related to health, illness, and death allows nurses to provide more effective and respectful patient care.
What if? If the question had asked for the state with the highest absolute number of Muslims, the correct answer would be Uttar Pradesh. This highlights the importance for health planners to distinguish between percentages and absolute figures when interpreting demographic data for resource allocation and program implementation.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully read the question and identify the key terms: '2011 census', 'highest percentage', and 'Muslim population'.
Note the critical distinction between 'percentage' and 'absolute number'. The question is about the proportion of the population, not the total count.
Evaluate the given options based on general knowledge of Indian demographics.
Recall or deduce that Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram are northeastern states with different primary religious demographics (indigenous beliefs and Christianity, respectively), making them unlikely answers.
Consider Andhra Pradesh, which has a notable Muslim minority but not a majority.
Identify Lakshadweep, a union territory known for its predominantly Muslim population, as the most probable candidate.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full DSSSB October 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.