Long-term demographic trends in south Bihar: Gaya and Shahabad districts,* 1811-1921

Abstract

This is a study of demographic trends in two regions of Bihar state India over the period 1811-1921 based on data from official sources such as the census. The author notes that the region can be divided into two zones. In the more developed north development led to improved communications and better supplies but facilitated the spread of highly contagious diseases. In the undeveloped south repeated subsistence crises resulted in periodic increases in mortality which kept population growth in check. This balance changed after 1919 and was followed by a period of population growth.