India is the most populous country in the world with over 145 crore people residing in the country. The country has some of the most densely populated cities in the world. Rapid urbanisation and large scale migration from rural areas have contributed to exponential population growth in urban centres across the country. However, there are many cities in India which haven’t experienced huge population growth and remain thinly populated. Such cities are a far cry from the bustling metropolises of Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad and others, and are devoid of jostling crowds and huge skyscrapers. Based on the 2011 census and current estimations, the top 10 least populated cities in India for the year 2025 are as follows.
1 Kapurthala
Kapurthala is a city in Punjab and an erstwhile princely state. Census 2011 put the population of this city at 98,916 while current estimate for 2025 is around 1,42,000. Sex ratio of Kapurthala is 839 females per 1000 males while the average literacy rate is 85.08% with male and female literacy rates at 88.02% and 81.5% respectively.
Kapurthala has a rich princely heritage and is widely known for its visually appealing palaces, monuments and well-manicured garden, which is why this city is called the Paris of Punjab. The city is also famous for Kanji Wetlands, a bird sanctuary which attracts bird watchers from all over the world.
2. Banswara
Banswara, a city located in the tribal region of Rajasthan, is the second least populated city in India. Census 2011 put the population of this city at 99,969 while current estimate for 2025 is around 1,43,000. The sex ratio of this city is 960 females per 1000 males while the average literacy rate is 85.72% with male and female literacy rates at 91.25% and 80.04% respectively.
Banswara is situated along the banks of the Mahi River and is called the City of Hundred Islands due to the presence of numerous islands on the Mahi River. The city is known for its picturesque landscapes and a vibrant tribal culture. It is also the greenest city in Rajasthan.
3. Nagda
Nagda is an industrial city located in the Ujjain district of Madhya Pradesh. Population of the city stood at 100,039, as per Census 2011, while the current estimate for 2025 is below 144,000. Sex ratio of Nagda is 947 females per 1000 males while the average literacy rate is 80.71% with male and female literacy rates at 88.43% and 72.62% respectively.
Nagda is situated along the Chambal River and is home to numerous manufactures facilities across industrial segments. The city is the hub of traditional Malwa culture.
4. Datia
Datia is a historical and culturally rich city in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Census 2011 put the population of this city at 100,284, while the current estimate for 2025 is around 144,000. Datia has a sex ratio of 900 females per 1000 males and an average literacy rate of 80.56% with male and female literacy rates at 87.33% and 73.08% respectively.
Datia is famous for its forts and palaces especially from the era of Bundela Rajputs who ruled this region. The city is also known for its Chhatris which are elaborate memorials built by royal families of yore to honour their dead.
5. Gangtok
Gangtok is the capital city of the Himalayan state of Sikkim. Census 2011 put the population of this city at 100,286, while the current estimate for 2025 is at or above 144,000. Sex ratio of Gangtok city is 912 females per 1000 males while the average literacy rate is 89.33% with male and female literacy rates at 92.77% and 85.54% respectively.
Gangtok is known for its breathtakingly beautiful views of the Himalayas. Being in close proximity to Tibet, the city is also a hub of Tibetan culture.
6. Kalyani
Kalyani is a highly planned city located in the Nadia district of West Bengal. Population of this city stood at 100,575, as per Census 2011, while current estimate for 2025 puts the same at over 144,000. Sex ratio of Kalyani is 983 females per 1000 males while the average literacy rate stands at 87.90% with male and female literacy rates at 91.73% and 84.03% respectively.
Kalyani is known for its educational institutions especially the BC Roy Agricultural University. The city is also famous for its lake, green spaces and AIIMS.
7. Kasganj
Kasganj is located in the Ganga-Yamuna Doab in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Census 2011 put the population of the city at 101,277, while the current estimate for 2025 is below 146,000. Kasganj has a sex ratio of 891 females per 1000 males and average literacy rate of 77.36% with male and female literacy rates at 82.63% and 71.51% respectively.
Kasganj is located along the banks of the Kali River and near the foothills of the Himalayas. It is mainly known for its local traditional markets.
8. Chilakaluripet
Chilakaluripet is situated in the Palnadu district of Andhra Pradesh. Population of the city stood at 101,398, as per Census 2011, while the current estimate for 2025 is just around 146,000. The city has a sex ratio of 1020 females per 1000 males and an average literacy rate of 71.54% with male and female literacy rates at 79.90% and 63.43% respectively.
Chilakaluripet is known for its ancient temples and wide meadows. The city is also a major centre for spices and other agricultural products.
9. Bhadreswar
Bhadreswar is located in the Hooghly district of West Bengal. Census 2011 put the population of the city at 101,477 while the current estimate for 2025 is around 146,000. Bhadreswar has a sex ratio of 903 females per 1000 males and average literacy rate of 86.51% with male and female literacy rates at 91.17% and 81.33% respectively.
Bhadreswar has numerous agroindustrial facilities like jute mills. The city also has many old temples.
10. Sujangarh
Sujangarh is located in the Churu district of Rajasthan. Population of this city stood at 101,523, as per Census 2011, while the current estimate for 2025 is over 146,000. Sex ratio of the city is 956 females per 1000 males, while its average literacy rate is 73.33% with male and female literacy rates at 84.11% and 62.16% respectively.
Sujangarh is famous for its historical temples, forts and massive traditional buildings called Havelis.
Conclusion
Least populated cities in India are characterised by quieter lifestyle of the local populace, cleaner environment and rich cultural traditions. Such cities are among the most preferred tourist spots especially for people wanting to escape the hustle bustle of major cities.
I’m Hina Khan, working as a writer at Worldblaze.in blog. I love dancing and listening punjabi music. Here I’m sharing all the interesting stuffs that will definitely entertain you.