India's population growth during the 29th century can be classified into four distinct phases. Match List I (Period) with List II (Phase) and select the correct answer using the using the codes given below the lists: List I (Period) - List II (Phase) 1. Α. 1901-21 - 1. Steady growth 2. Β. 1921-51 - 2. Rapid high growth 3. C. 1951-81 - 3. Stagnant growth 4. D. 1981-2001 - 4. High growth with definite signs of slowdown

1. The question asks to match different periods of the 20th century with the corresponding phases of India's population growth. 2. A. 1901-21: This period witnessed very slow and sometimes negative growth due to high birth and death rates, exacerbated by famines and epidemics (like the 1918 influenza pandemic). This corresponds to Stagnant growth (3). 3. B. 1921-51: Often called the 'Year of the Great Divide', 1921 marked the beginning of a consistent increase in population. Death rates began to fall due to improvements in health and sanitation, while birth rates remained high. This corresponds to Steady growth (1). 4. C. 1951-81: Post-independence, India experienced a population explosion. Death rates fell sharply due to improved public health, medical facilities, and food distribution, while birth rates declined much more slowly. This corresponds to Rapid high growth (2). 5. D. 1981-2001: The rate of population growth remained high but started showing definite signs of slowdown as birth rates began to decline more noticeably due to family planning efforts and socio-economic changes. This corresponds to High growth with definite signs of slowdown (4). 6. Therefore, the correct matching is A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4.