Among the following Indian States, which one has recorded the lowest birth rate in India according to demographic statistics?

Introduction / Context:
This question belongs to Indian demographics and population studies. Birth rate is a key indicator of population growth and is influenced by education, health care, income levels and social factors. Different states in India show very different birth rates, and competitive exams often ask about states with extreme values such as highest or lowest birth rates.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The states listed are Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal.
• The question asks for the state with the lowest birth rate, not the highest.
• We assume reference to typical recent demographic data, such as Sample Registration System reports.
• The options include both high fertility and low fertility states.

Concept / Approach:
Kerala is known for high literacy, better health indicators and a demographic transition towards lower fertility. Consequently, its birth rate is among the lowest in India. In contrast, states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have relatively high birth rates due to larger family norms and lower levels of female literacy and health access. West Bengal also has a relatively moderate birth rate, but Kerala remains the benchmark for low fertility in India.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Kerala is often cited as a model state in terms of health, education and demographic transition. Step 2: Recognise that Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have traditionally shown higher fertility and birth rates. Step 3: Consider West Bengal, which has a lower birth rate than many northern states but is still generally above Kerala. Step 4: Remember that demographic surveys consistently rank Kerala at or near the bottom in terms of birth rate. Step 5: Select Kerala as the state with the lowest birth rate among the given options.

Verification / Alternative check:
Sample Registration System reports and census-related documents show that Kerala has one of the lowest crude birth rates in the country, often close to or below replacement level fertility. Uttar Pradesh and Bihar appear at the higher end of birth rate rankings, while West Bengal lies in between, thereby confirming that Kerala holds the lowest value among the options listed.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Uttar Pradesh: This state has a high population and relatively high birth rate, contributing significantly to India's population growth.

Bihar: Bihar frequently reports one of the highest birth rates among Indian states, the opposite of what the question asks for.

West Bengal: Its birth rate is lower than many states but still generally higher than Kerala's, so it cannot be the lowest among the four.

Common Pitfalls:
Candidates sometimes get confused by changes in statistics over time or assume West Bengal might have the lowest birth rate because it is not often discussed. A sound strategy is to remember Kerala as the state most advanced in demographic transition, which typically implies very low birth and death rates.

Final Answer:
Among the given states, the lowest birth rate is recorded in Kerala.