According to the Census of 2011, what was the approximate population of the state of Telangana?

Introduction / Context:
This question examines knowledge of basic demographic facts about the state of Telangana. Population data from the Census of India is frequently used in competitive exams for geography and general studies. Telangana as a separate state was formed later, but population figures for its territory are derived from the 2011 Census.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question refers specifically to Census 2011 data.
• The territory corresponds to the present state of Telangana.
• Options provide rounded population figures in millions.

Concept / Approach:
The 2011 Census recorded the population of the area that would become Telangana at a little over 3.5 crore, which is about 35 million people. For objective questions, figures are often rounded to the nearest whole million. Therefore, remembering that Telangana's population is around 3.5 crore (35 million) in 2011 is sufficient to pick the correct option.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that 1 crore equals 10 million. Step 2: Remember that the population of Telangana around 2011 is slightly above 3.5 crore. Step 3: Convert 3.5 crore to 35 million. Step 4: Compare this with the options 35, 38, 45 and 48 million. Step 5: Select 35 million as the closest and correct rounded figure.

Verification / Alternative check:
You can verify the figure by relating it to the approximate populations of other states: Telangana is smaller than large states like Uttar Pradesh or Maharashtra but larger than many north eastern states. Its population of around 35 million fits this comparative pattern and aligns with standard data used in exam materials.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option B (38 million) overstates the population by several million and does not match the widely cited 3.5 crore figure.
Option C (45 million) and option D (48 million) are even larger overestimates and do not align with official statistics for the region at that time.

Common Pitfalls:
A common pitfall is confusing crore and million conversions or mixing up population figures of neighbouring states such as Andhra Pradesh or Karnataka. Another mistake is to assume steady population growth and apply later estimates to earlier census years. Exam questions typically want the exact or rounded census figure for the specified year.

Final Answer:
According to the Census of 2011, the approximate population of Telangana was about 35 million people.