Q. Consider the following historical data about Sri Lanka’s population:
  1. The first census in Sri Lanka was conducted in 1871.
  2. The population in 1971 was more than five times that of 1871.
  3. The highest annual population growth rate was recorded in 1953.
  4. The census of 2024 recorded the highest ever growth rate in Sri Lanka.
Which of the above statements is / are correct?

Answer: 1, 2 and 3 only
Notes: Statement 1: Correct – First census in Sri Lanka was indeed conducted in 1871. Statement 2: This is accurate as the population of Sri Lanka in 1971 was indeed more than five times that of 1871. Statement 3: Correct – 1953 did record the highest annual growth rate at 2.8%. Statement 4: This is incorrect as the 2024 growth rate was only 0.5%, this wasn't the highest in the history of Sri Lanka's census records.