Difference between Urban and Rural is explained here in detail. Rural area or countryside is a geographic area that is located outside towns and cities. Cities, towns and suburbs are classified as Urban areas. Typically, Urban areas have high population density and rural areas have low population density. This article is important from the perspective of getting a clear distinction between Urban vs Rural areas.
Aspirants would find this article very helpful while preparing for the IAS Exam.
Difference between Urban and Rural – UPSC Notes:- Download PDF Here
Urban vs Rural – Comparative Analysis
The major differences between Urban and Rural, from the perspective of UPSC exam are as follows:
| Urban | Rural |
| Urban areas usually refer to cities, suburbs and towns. | Rural areas usually refer to villages |
| Urban areas have more development in terms of access to infrastructure and connectivity like airports, ports, railways, housing, roads etc. | Rural areas usually don’t have much development in terms of infrastructure. |
| Land in urban areas is used for development activities. There is usually not much land available which has not been used for developmental activities | Rural areas usually have a lot of vacant lands without much development. |
| Urban areas are densely populated | Rural areas are sparsely populated |
| As of 2018, approximately 34% of India’s population lives in urban areas | More than 65% of India’s population lives in rural areas as per 2018 figures. From 2008 to 2018 there has been a steady decline in the percentage of the population living in rural areas of India, due to migration. |
| Although the total population living in urban areas is much less compared to Rural areas, the population density is very high in urban areas | The population density is less in rural areas compared to urban areas. |
| Urban areas have a scarcity of land | Rural areas do not have land scarcity. |
| There is very high pollution in urban areas due to high population density, vehicles and industries. | There is not much pollution in rural areas compared to urban areas, due to lesser vehicles, lower population density and lesser industries |
| There is not much greenery in urban areas of India, since most of the land is occupied by buildings and roads | There is more greenery in rural areas of India |
| Jobs are concentrated in the services industry, manufacturing industry, trade and commerce | Jobs are concentrated in agricultural activities. |
| In urban areas, the problem of social barriers is minimal, there are equal opportunities for jobs, education etc. | In rural areas of India, there is always a lot of difference in social status in rural areas due to gender, religion, caste, culture etc. |
These are the main differences between Urban and Rural. The differences given in the above table can help the UPSC CSE aspirants to make easier distinctions on topics related to Urban Vs Rural.
After learning about the Urban and Rural areas, it is better to know more details of urbanisation in India, Infrastructure development in India, Resurgent India published in different editions of Yojana Magazine. Also learn more about Rural Prosperity, Agricultural reforms, and agro-based industries; published in editions of Kurukshetra Magazines. Visit the below-given links to learn about Urbanisation in India, Rural Prosperity, Infrastructure Development in India, Agricultural reforms etc.
- Urbanisation in India – Gist of Yojana Magazine
- Infrastructure Development in India – Gist of Yojana Magazine
- Resurgent India – Gist of Yojana Magazine
- Rural Prosperity: Rural Poverty, Livelihood, Social Development – Gist of Kurukshetra Magazine
- Agricultural Reforms: Roadmap, Initiatives, Empowerment of Women Farmers – Gist of Kurukshetra Magazine
- Agro-Based Industries: Challenges, Opportunities, Increase Farmers Income, Textile, Clothing – Gist of Kurukshetra Magazine
- Difference between Articles – Complete List (History, Geography, Polity and More)
Candidates are advised to diligently study the Indian Economy Notes while preparing for UPSC Civil Service Examination.
Furthermore, aspirants must also carefully review the civil services syllabus and exam pattern for a better understanding of the examination and accordingly chalk out the preparation strategy.
To learn about the best strategy to be followed that can help in guiding through the exam preparation, candidates can refer to the UPSC topper list and check out their success stories.
Difference between Urban and Rural – UPSC Notes:- Download PDF Here
Frequently Asked Questions about Urban and Rural Areas
What is a rural area?
How is an area classified as urban and rural in India?
The above details would help candidates prepare for UPSC 2022.
Related Links
| IAS Salary | Static GK |
| Major Crops of India | Female Freedom Fighters |
| Union Minister | ESE Admit Card |
| IUCN Red List | Fundamental Rights Meaning |
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