What the data shows:

The urban share of the population has risen steadily from about 10.8 per cent in 1901 to 31.2 per cent in 2011, which is roughly three times, while the rural share has fallen from 89.2 per cent to 68.8 per cent.

(33.1) Two social reasons for rural-urban migration

1. Escape from the rigidity of village society:
   In villages caste hierarchy, untouchability and social control by dominant groups are strongly felt. Cities are more anonymous and impersonal, so a person's caste is less visible and social restrictions are weaker. Migration therefore offers dignity and freedom.
2. Better facilities and opportunities:
   Cities offer better schools and colleges, hospitals, transport and recreation. Families migrate so that their children can get a good education and a better standard of living.

(33.2) Reasons for the decline in the agrarian-rural way of life

Step 1 - Falling share of agriculture in the economy:

Although a large part of the population still works on land, the contribution of agriculture to national income has fallen sharply. Industry and services now produce most of the country's wealth.

Step 2 - Pressure of population on land:

Land holdings have been divided again and again over generations. Small and fragmented plots cannot support a family, so agriculture is no longer a secure livelihood.

Step 3 - Mechanisation and loss of rural employment:

Tractors, harvesters and threshers have reduced the need for agricultural labour. Traditional village crafts and services have also declined because factory-made goods are cheaper.

Step 4 - Attraction of the industrial and urban economy:

Better wages, regular work and new occupations in industry and services draw people to towns. Education and skills acquired in villages are increasingly directed towards urban jobs.

Step 5 - Spread of urban culture into villages:

Roads, television, mobile phones and the internet have carried urban tastes, dress and aspirations into rural areas. Even those who stay behind no longer see farming as a desirable way of life.

Conclusion: The decline is therefore not only in numbers but also in the economic and social importance attached to the agrarian way of life.