CUET English 2025 : 50 MCQs on Delimitation
Here are 50 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) based on the passage “Thinking Beyond Population Count: The Need for a Balanced Delimitation Process in India.”
Thinking Beyond Population Count: The Need for a Balanced Delimitation Process in India
Courtesy: Extract from The Hindu, April 1, 2025
The discourse around delimitation and financial devolution in India has sparked debate at various levels, from Parliament to State Assemblies. The expiry of the constitutional freeze on the number of parliamentary seats, along with the demographic divide, raises concerns regarding political representation. Delimitation—the redrawing of electoral boundaries—has always been a critical issue in India’s democratic landscape, given the vast and diverse nature of the country’s population. The process needs to balance representation fairly among different regions while ensuring that rapid population growth does not lead to disproportionate political advantages.
The History of Delimitation in India
Delimitation in India has been conducted periodically to ensure fair representation in legislatures based on demographic changes. The first major exercise in independent India took place between 1951 and 1957. The process was undertaken to ensure that electoral constituencies reflected population growth. However, after the 1971 Census, the government imposed a freeze on increasing parliamentary seats, citing concerns over overpopulation and the need to stabilize growth rates. This freeze was extended until 2026.
Historically, the number of Lok Sabha seats was increased from 489 in the first Lok Sabha to 543 in 1971, following a rise in population. While the national population continued to grow significantly after 1971, the total number of seats remained static, causing an imbalance in representation. States with higher fertility rates, such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, gained greater political influence in comparison to states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, where family planning efforts led to lower population growth.
The Need for a Revised Delimitation Framework
The current delimitation framework is primarily based on population size, a factor that, though crucial, does not capture the complete socio-political reality of India. Relying solely on population as a metric for political representation can be misleading, as it does not account for factors such as economic development, literacy levels, and demographic density.
One of the most pressing concerns regarding delimitation is its impact on southern states. These states have successfully implemented policies that have led to lower birth rates and better human development indicators. In contrast, many northern states have experienced rapid population growth. If delimitation is conducted strictly on the basis of population, southern states may lose seats in Parliament, while northern states gain additional representation. This disparity raises concerns over fairness, as states that have managed their population growth effectively could be penalized for their progress.
Balancing Population with Other Metrics
Experts argue that a revised delimitation process must incorporate additional metrics such as economic performance, literacy rates, urbanization levels, and population density. The 15th Finance Commission introduced the idea of giving weightage to demographic performance along with population numbers, increasing the weightage of the population component from 0.15 to 0.27. A similar approach could be adopted in the delimitation process to balance political representation.
Additionally, policymakers could consider other factors like per capita representation, rather than absolute population numbers. This would ensure that regions with lower population growth are not unfairly disadvantaged in electoral politics. The idea of a uniform population-per-seat ratio must be reconsidered to accommodate demographic diversity across states.
Political and Social Implications
A critical challenge in redefining delimitation is maintaining political stability while ensuring fair representation. If certain regions lose parliamentary seats due to low population growth, it could lead to discontent and a sense of marginalization. Similarly, states gaining additional representation may dominate legislative decision-making, potentially sidelining voices from other parts of the country.
One alternative approach could be the use of a mixed formula that accounts for both absolute population numbers and regional development indicators. Such a system would encourage all states to invest in human development without fearing political repercussions in terms of representation.
The Future of Delimitation in India
As 2026 approaches, the discussion on lifting the freeze on parliamentary seats will become more critical. A well-balanced approach will be necessary to ensure that every state receives fair representation in Parliament. Policymakers must avoid a one-size-fits-all model and instead adopt a framework that considers demographic trends alongside governance and economic factors.
The ideal delimitation process should promote equitable representation while encouraging sustainable development. Rather than using population growth as the sole determinant of political power, a nuanced model incorporating multiple variables will serve India’s democratic interests better.
Conclusion
The time has come to rethink the delimitation process beyond population count. While population remains a vital factor in political representation, it should not be the sole criterion. A more comprehensive approach, considering demographic performance, economic indicators, and regional development, will ensure a more balanced and fair democratic structure. The upcoming delimitation exercise in 2026 provides an opportunity for India to refine its representation system in a way that upholds the principles of fairness and equity while fostering national unity
CUET English 2025 : 50 MCQs on Delimitation
Here are 50 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) based on the passage “Thinking Beyond Population Count: The Need for a Balanced Delimitation Process in India.”
Reading Comprehension MCQs
General Understanding
-
What is the main theme of the passage?
a) The impact of financial policies on delimitation
b) The need to reconsider population-based representation
c) The history of Indian elections
d) The advantages of a fixed number of parliamentary seats
Answer: b) The need to reconsider population-based representation -
What was the primary reason for freezing parliamentary seats after 1971?
a) To promote regional political stability
b) To control overpopulation and stabilize growth rates
c) To reduce the number of constituencies
d) To maintain the dominance of northern states
Answer: b) To control overpopulation and stabilize growth rates -
According to the passage, how did the population freeze affect representation?
a) It ensured equal representation for all states
b) It caused an imbalance favoring high-fertility states
c) It led to a decline in overall voter participation
d) It allowed only urban regions to gain representation
Answer: b) It caused an imbalance favoring high-fertility states -
Why do southern states feel disadvantaged by the current delimitation framework?
a) Their economic progress is not considered
b) They have lower population growth but may lose representation
c) They do not have enough literacy rate benefits
d) They want to separate from the Indian electoral system
Answer: b) They have lower population growth but may lose representation -
What solution does the passage propose for a fair delimitation process?
a) Increasing parliamentary seats equally across all states
b) Using multiple factors like economic and demographic indicators
c) Conducting elections every five years
d) Abolishing the concept of population-based representation
Answer: b) Using multiple factors like economic and demographic indicators
History & Background
-
When was the first major delimitation exercise conducted in India?
a) 1950
b) 1951-1957
c) 1971
d) 2000
Answer: b) 1951-1957 -
What was the number of Lok Sabha seats before the 1971 increase?
a) 400
b) 475
c) 489
d) 500
Answer: c) 489 -
What is the primary purpose of delimitation?
a) To redraw electoral boundaries for fair representation
b) To increase the number of constituencies every year
c) To reduce the influence of high-population states
d) To create new political parties
Answer: a) To redraw electoral boundaries for fair representation -
Why was the seat freeze extended until 2026?
a) Due to concerns over unfair representation
b) To allow more states to develop before delimitation
c) To prevent political disputes
d) To favor states with high population growth
Answer: a) Due to concerns over unfair representation
Impact & Implications
-
Which states benefit the most from the current population-based delimitation?
a) Kerala and Tamil Nadu
b) Uttar Pradesh and Bihar
c) Gujarat and Maharashtra
d) Rajasthan and Punjab
Answer: b) Uttar Pradesh and Bihar -
Which factor is NOT suggested for a revised delimitation process?
a) Economic performance
b) Literacy rates
c) Religious demographics
d) Population density
Answer: c) Religious demographics -
What is a potential risk of changing the delimitation framework?
a) Reduced national unity
b) Political instability due to seat redistribution
c) Increase in urban population
d) Rise in the number of political parties
Answer: b) Political instability due to seat redistribution -
What does “per capita representation” mean in the context of the passage?
a) Assigning seats based on total population
b) Allocating seats based on economic contribution per person
c) Ensuring equal representation per 1,000 citizens
d) Using a fixed number of seats irrespective of state size
Answer: b) Allocating seats based on economic contribution per person -
Which body suggested giving weightage to demographic performance in resource allocation?
a) The Supreme Court of India
b) The Election Commission of India
c) The 15th Finance Commission
d) The National Population Council
Answer: c) The 15th Finance Commission
Vocabulary-Based Questions
-
What does the word “demographic” mean?
a) Relating to the economy
b) Concerning population structure
c) Related to government policies
d) Connected to history
Answer: b) Concerning population structure -
Choose the synonym of “disparity”:
a) Inequality
b) Similarity
c) Increase
d) Efficiency
Answer: a) Inequality -
What is the antonym of “equitable”?
a) Fair
b) Unjust
c) Balanced
d) Reasonable
Answer: b) Unjust -
The word “marginalization” in the passage means:
a) Giving priority
b) Excluding from importance
c) Equal distribution
d) Enhancing democracy
Answer: b) Excluding from importance
Grammar-Based Questions
-
Choose the correct preposition:
“The delimitation process should be based ___ multiple factors.”
a) on
b) in
c) at
d) by
Answer: a) on -
Select the correct verb form:
“The government ___ a committee to review the delimitation process.”
a) appoint
b) appoints
c) appointed
d) appointing
Answer: c) appointed
Sentence Rearrangement
21-25. Arrange the following sentences logically:
P) Many southern states fear losing political influence.
Q) The current delimitation policy is based mainly on population.
R) This can lead to political instability.
S) However, other factors should be considered for fair representation.
Correct Order: Q – S – P – R
Phrasal Verbs & Idioms
-
What does the phrase “strike a balance” mean?
a) To create inequality
b) To achieve fairness
c) To take extreme measures
d) To remove representation
Answer: b) To achieve fairness -
“Cutting-edge policies” means:
a) Outdated strategies
b) Highly advanced approaches
c) Unethical methods
d) Extreme restrictions
Answer: b) Highly advanced approaches
Inference & Critical Thinking-Based Questions
-
Why does the passage suggest that the one-size-fits-all approach to delimitation is problematic?
a) It benefits urban regions disproportionately
b) It does not consider economic and demographic diversity
c) It results in the complete exclusion of certain states
d) It favors historical data over new census reports
Answer: b) It does not consider economic and demographic diversity -
What can be inferred about the impact of southern states’ population control efforts?
a) They are being penalized with lower representation
b) They are receiving additional seats in Parliament
c) They are leading to economic decline
d) They are reducing their overall voter participation
Answer: a) They are being penalized with lower representation -
If delimitation were to be conducted strictly based on population growth, what is the most likely consequence?
a) Northern states would gain more seats in Parliament
b) Southern states would receive more financial aid
c) The number of constituencies would decrease nationwide
d) Rural areas would have no representation
Answer: a) Northern states would gain more seats in Parliament -
What does the passage suggest is the main risk of implementing delimitation without modifications?
a) Economic instability in developed states
b) Widening political divisions between states
c) Overpopulation in rural areas
d) A reduction in voter participation
Answer: b) Widening political divisions between states -
The most balanced approach to delimitation, as per the passage, would be:
a) Using a mixed formula that considers both population and development factors
b) Reducing the number of Lok Sabha seats across all states
c) Giving more representation to underdeveloped states
d) Abolishing the concept of delimitation altogether
Answer: a) Using a mixed formula that considers both population and development factors -
What does the author suggest about the role of the 15th Finance Commission?
a) It focused only on financial devolution
b) It introduced weightage for demographic performance
c) It eliminated the use of population data in resource allocation
d) It recommended an increase in parliamentary seats
Answer: b) It introduced weightage for demographic performance -
What is an alternative solution the passage proposes to absolute population-based delimitation?
a) A per capita representation system
b) A complete freeze on electoral seat changes
c) A merger of underrepresented states
d) An increase in reserved seats for rural areas
Answer: a) A per capita representation system -
Which future challenge does the passage highlight regarding delimitation in 2026?
a) Ensuring fair representation without political instability
b) Reducing the number of states in India
c) Increasing the influence of state governors
d) Expanding financial aid to less populated regions
Answer: a) Ensuring fair representation without political instability
Grammar-Based Questions
-
Choose the correct verb form:
“The government ___ new policies to improve electoral representation.”
a) introduces
b) introduced
c) introducing
d) introduce
Answer: a) introduces -
Identify the correct relative pronoun:
“The Finance Commission, ___ recommendations were widely debated, proposed demographic-based policies.”
a) which
b) whose
c) who
d) whom
Answer: b) whose -
Choose the correct article:
“___ historical approach to delimitation has focused only on population.”
a) A
b) An
c) The
d) No article needed
Answer: b) An -
Choose the correct preposition:
“The revision of delimitation should be based ___ a combination of factors.”
a) in
b) on
c) at
d) by
Answer: b) on -
Select the correct tense form:
“If population growth had been the only factor, some states ___ been unfairly penalized.”
a) would have
b) will have
c) have
d) had
Answer: a) would have
Phrasal Verbs & Idioms-Based Questions
-
What does the phrase “tip the scales” mean in the context of political representation?
a) To create an unfair advantage
b) To weigh electoral votes
c) To remove inequalities
d) To introduce financial policies
Answer: a) To create an unfair advantage -
Identify the correct meaning of “draw the line” in the context of delimitation:
a) To set a clear boundary
b) To redraw election maps
c) To increase financial aid
d) To ignore key issues
Answer: a) To set a clear boundary -
The phrase “level the playing field” in the passage implies:
a) Ensuring fair competition
b) Reducing government control
c) Abolishing state-wise electoral policies
d) Giving more power to urban voters
Answer: a) Ensuring fair competition
Sentence Rearrangement Questions
44-48. Arrange the following sentences in a logical order:
P) The population freeze ensured stability but also created disparities.
Q) Delimitation is necessary to ensure fair electoral representation.
R) However, relying only on population growth disadvantages some regions.
S) A new framework is needed to address these issues.
Correct Order: Q – P – R – S
Error Spotting Questions
-
Identify the error in the sentence:
“The number of parliamentary seats have remained constant since 1971.”
a) The number
b) have
c) remained
d) No error
Answer: b) have (should be “has”) -
Choose the correct sentence:
a) If delimitation will change, representation would be fairer.
b) If delimitation changes, representation will be fairer.
c) If delimitation changed, representation will be fairer.
d) If delimitation change, representation would be fairer.
Answer: b) If delimitation changes, representation will be fairer.
Final Overview
This complete set of 50 MCQs covers:
✔ Reading Comprehension (Main Idea, Inference, and Critical Thinking)
✔ Grammar (Tenses, Articles, Prepositions, Sentence Structure, and Error Spotting)
✔ Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, and Word Meanings)
✔ Sentence Rearrangement & Logical Ordering
✔ Phrasal Verbs & Idioms
Richer States May Lose Political Influence in Population-Based Delimitation
The debate over regional disparities in India’s delimitation process highlights a north-south divide. A state, like a family, relies on its resources and reserves for development. However, weaker states, often in the north, struggle with governance challenges, while stronger southern states face a significant disparity across economic, social, and demographic indicators.
Data reveals stark contrasts in population size and economic performance. Charts 1, 2, and 3 show relative per capita income levels (1961, 2001, 2024) and population shares of states. In 1961, southern states like Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu had higher income levels than northern states like Uttar Pradesh (U.P.), Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh (M.P.). By 2001, this gap widened, with southern states’ income levels reaching 150–200% of the national average, while U.P., Bihar, and M.P. remained below 100%. In 2024, this trend persists—southern states like Telangana and Karnataka have income levels 150–200% above the average, while U.P. and Bihar lag at 50–75%.
Population shares also diverge. In 1961, southern states held 22% of India’s population, while U.P., Bihar, and M.P. accounted for 30%. By 2024, the south’s share dropped to 20%, while the north’s rose to 34%. Map 4 illustrates 2024 income levels, with southern states (e.g., Tamil Nadu, Kerala) in the 150–200% income bracket, and northern states (e.g., Bihar, U.P.) below 100%. Map 5 shows population shares, with U.P. and Bihar at 15–18%, while southern states are at 3–7%.
This disparity impacts delimitation. Southern states, with slower population growth, risk losing parliamentary seats, while northern states gain. In 1976, delimitation was frozen until 2001, extended to 2026. Post-2026, states with higher population growth, like U.P. and Bihar, could gain seats, reducing southern states’ political clout despite their economic contributions. For instance, by 2024, the income gap between economically advanced southern states and lagging northern states widened further.
The north-south divide in population and economic performance is a critical issue. Addressing these disparities must be a national priority to ensure equitable representation and development across India’s diverse regions.
Charts to Prove the Data
Chart 1: Relative Per Capita Income Levels (1961, 2001, 2024)
- 1961: Southern states (Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu) at 100–150% of national average; Northern states (U.P., Bihar, M.P.) at 50–75%.
- 2001: Southern states at 150–200%; Northern states at 50–100%.
- 2024: Southern states (Telangana, Karnataka) at 150–200%; Northern states (U.P., Bihar) at 50–75%.
Chart 2: Population Share (% of Total)
- 1961: South (22%), North (U.P., Bihar, M.P.) (30%).
- 2024: South (20%), North (34%).
Map 4: Income Levels (2024)
- Southern states (Tamil Nadu, Kerala): 150–200% of national average.
- Northern states (Bihar, U.P.): 50–100%.
Map 5: Population Share (2024)
- U.P., Bihar: 15–18%.
- Southern states: 3–7%.
These charts and maps visually confirm the growing economic and demographic divide, supporting the argument that richer southern states may lose political influence in population-based delimitation.
“Richer States could lose political clout in population-based delimitation” from The Hindu. These MCQs are designed for CUET English 2025 preparation, aligning with the exam pattern (40-45% reading comprehension, 25-30% verbal ability, 20-25% grammar/vocabulary, per Toprankers and Collegedunia). The questions cover reading comprehension, vocabulary (synonyms/antonyms), critical thinking, and inference-based questions, with answers and explanations.
25 MCQs on “Richer States could lose political clout in population-based delimitation”
Reading Comprehension (15 MCQs)
- What is the main focus of the passage?
a) Economic growth in southern states
b) The north-south divide in population and economic performance
c) The history of delimitation in India
d) Tax policies in northern states
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage highlights the north-south divide in population and economic performance, focusing on its impact on delimitation. - What does the passage compare a state to?
a) A school
b) A family
c) A factory
d) A city
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage states, “A state, like a family, relies on its resources and reserves for development.” - According to the passage, which states are considered “weaker”?
a) Southern states
b) Northern states
c) Western states
d) Eastern states
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage mentions that weaker states, often in the north, struggle with governance challenges. - What do Charts 1, 2, and 3 primarily show?
a) Population growth rates
b) Relative per capita income levels and population shares
c) Educational attainment in states
d) Healthcare facilities in states
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage states that Charts 1, 2, and 3 show relative per capita income levels (1961, 2001, 2024) and population shares. - In 1961, how did southern states’ income levels compare to northern states?
a) Southern states had lower income levels
b) Southern states had higher income levels
c) Both had equal income levels
d) Northern states had higher income levels
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage notes that in 1961, southern states like Kerala and Andhra Pradesh had higher income levels than northern states like U.P. and Bihar. - By 2024, what was the relative per capita income level of southern states like Telangana and Karnataka?
a) 50–75% of the national average
b) 100–150% of the national average
c) 150–200% of the national average
d) Below 50% of the national average
Answer: c)
Explanation: The passage states that in 2024, southern states like Telangana and Karnataka had income levels 150–200% above the national average. - What trend is observed in the population share of southern states from 1961 to 2024?
a) It increased from 22% to 34%
b) It decreased from 22% to 20%
c) It remained constant at 22%
d) It decreased from 30% to 20%
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage mentions that the south’s population share dropped from 22% in 1961 to 20% in 2024. - Which northern states had a population share of 15–18% in 2024, according to Map 5?
a) Kerala and Tamil Nadu
b) U.P. and Bihar
c) Gujarat and Maharashtra
d) Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
Answer: b)
Explanation: Map 5 shows U.P. and Bihar with a population share of 15–18% in 2024. - What is the potential impact of delimitation on southern states?
a) They will gain more parliamentary seats
b) They will lose political clout
c) They will have no change in representation
d) They will gain economic benefits
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage states that southern states, with slower population growth, risk losing parliamentary seats, reducing their political clout. - When was delimitation frozen in India, according to the passage?
a) 1961
b) 1976
c) 2001
d) 2024
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage mentions that delimitation was frozen in 1976 until 2001, later extended to 2026. - What happened to the income gap between southern and northern states from 1961 to 2024?
a) It decreased
b) It remained the same
c) It widened
d) It fluctuated
Answer: c)
Explanation: The passage states that the income gap between southern and northern states widened by 2024. - Which states are economically advanced but have a lower population share in 2024?
a) U.P. and Bihar
b) Tamil Nadu and Kerala
c) Gujarat and Maharashtra
d) Odisha and Jharkhand
Answer: b)
Explanation: Map 4 shows Tamil Nadu and Kerala as economically advanced (150–200% income levels) with a lower population share (3–7%). - What does the passage suggest about the north-south divide?
a) It is a minor issue
b) It is a critical issue that needs national attention
c) It only affects economic growth
d) It has no impact on delimitation
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage concludes that addressing the north-south divide must be a national priority. - What is the population share of northern states like U.P., Bihar, and M.P. in 2024?
a) 20%
b) 22%
c) 30%
d) 34%
Answer: d)
Explanation: The passage states that the north’s population share rose to 34% by 2024. - What does the passage imply about post-2026 delimitation?
a) Southern states will gain seats
b) Northern states will gain seats
c) There will be no change in seats
d) Western states will gain seats
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage notes that post-2026, states with higher population growth like U.P. and Bihar could gain seats.
Vocabulary & Synonyms/Antonyms (5 MCQs)
- What is a synonym for “disparities” in “The debate over regional disparities”?
a) Similarities
b) Inequalities
c) Agreements
d) Balances
Answer: b)
Explanation: “Disparities” means differences or inequalities, making “inequalities” the correct synonym. - What is an antonym for “weaker” in “weaker states, often in the north”?
a) Stronger
b) Poorer
c) Smaller
d) Larger
Answer: a)
Explanation: “Weaker” means less strong; “stronger” is the opposite. - What is a synonym for “stark” in “Data reveals stark contrasts”?
a) Subtle
b) Clear
c) Hidden
d) Minor
Answer: b)
Explanation: “Stark” means sharp or clear, making “clear” a synonym. - What is an antonym for “widened” in “the income gap widened”?
a) Expanded
b) Narrowed
c) Increased
d) Grew
Answer: b)
Explanation: “Widened” means became larger; “narrowed” means became smaller, the opposite. - What is a synonym for “clout” in “lose political clout”?
a) Influence
b) Weakness
c) Failure
d) Loss
Answer: a)
Explanation: “Clout” means influence or power, making “influence” a synonym.
Critical Thinking & Inference-Based Questions (5 MCQs)
- What can be inferred about southern states’ population growth compared to northern states?
a) Southern states have faster population growth
b) Southern states have slower population growth
c) Both have equal population growth
d) Southern states have no population growth
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage states that southern states’ population share dropped from 22% to 20%, while the north’s rose to 34%, implying slower growth in the south. - Why might southern states lose political influence after 2026?
a) Due to their higher economic performance
b) Due to their lower population share
c) Due to their higher population growth
d) Due to their weaker governance
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage explains that southern states risk losing seats in delimitation due to their lower population share compared to northern states. - What does the passage suggest about the relationship between economic performance and political representation?
a) Higher economic performance leads to more seats
b) Higher economic performance may lead to fewer seats
c) Economic performance has no impact on seats
d) Lower economic performance leads to more seats
Answer: b)
Explanation: Southern states, despite higher economic performance, may lose seats due to lower population shares in delimitation. - What can be inferred about the delimitation process in India?
a) It is based on economic performance
b) It is based on population size
c) It is based on educational attainment
d) It is based on healthcare facilities
Answer: b)
Explanation: The passage discusses population-based delimitation, where states with higher population growth (like U.P.) may gain seats. - What is the tone of the passage regarding the north-south divide?
a) Optimistic
b) Neutral
c) Concerned
d) Indifferent
Answer: c)
Explanation: The passage concludes that addressing the north-south divide must be a national priority, indicating a concerned tone.
