Census and Statutory Towns – UPSC GS1

What is a census town?
A Census Town is an area with urban characteristics like
  • a minimum population of 5,000,
  • at least 75% of the male main working force engaged in non-agricultural activities and
  • population density of at least 400 persons per sq.km.
As per 2011 Census, there are 3,784 Census Towns as against 1,362 in 2001.
What is a statutory town?
A Statutory Town is one with a municipality, corporation, cantonment board or notified town area committee. As per 2011 Census, there are 4,041 such towns as against 3,799 in 2001.
Benefits for states:
Conversion of Census towns into statutory ULBs entitle states to Central assistance as per the guidelines of 14th Finance Commission. Under Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), 50% weightage is given to the number of statutory towns in any State/UT in allocation of funds among States/UTs.
Facts:
  • State with highest number of census towns is West Bengal with 780 towns.
  • Mizoram has no census towns.

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