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Question

What percentage of India's population lived mostly in villages during the British colonial rule?

This question was previously asked in
RRB NTPC 2024 CBT 1 Question Paper (28-Aug-2025) (Shift 3)
The correct answer is
About 85%

Village Population Percentage During British Rule

During the period of British colonial rule in India, the vast majority of the population resided in rural areas.

Historical estimates and census data from that era indicate a significantly high percentage of people living mostly in villages.

The most widely accepted figures suggest that approximately 85% of India's population was rural during British rule. This highlights the agrarian nature of the Indian economy and society at the time.

  • Rural Dominance: The Indian economy was predominantly agricultural, leading to a large rural population.
  • Urbanization Levels: Urban centers were limited, and industrialization was minimal under British rule, keeping most people dependent on agriculture in villages.
  • Historical Data: Various historical accounts and studies confirm this high percentage of village dwellers.

Therefore, the percentage of India's population living mostly in villages during the British colonial rule was about 85%.

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