Which of the following defines the stage of demographic transition ?

Options

A. Birth rate is higher than death rate.
B. Death rate is higher than birth rate.
C. Birth rate and death rate are equal.
D. Both (1) and (2).

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Demographic Transition**:
- Demographic transition refers to the model that describes the transition of a country from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates. This transition typically occurs in stages.

2. **Identifying the Stages**:
- The initial stage (pre-industrial society) is characterized by high birth rates and high death rates. This is often due to limited medical facilities and high infant mortality rates.
- The later stage (post-industrial society) is characterized by low birth rates and low death rates, which is a result of improved medical facilities, better living conditions, and advancements in science and technology.

3. **Analyzing the Options**:
- The question provides several options regarding the relationship between birth rates and death rates:
- (a) Birth rate is higher than death rate
- (b) Death rate is higher than birth rate
- (c) Birth rate and death rate are equal

4. **Evaluating the Correct Option**:
- In the context of demographic transition, the correct answer is that birth rate and death rate can be considered equal at certain transitional points. In the early stages, both rates are high, and in the later stages, both rates are low. Thus, the option stating that birth rate and death rate are equal is correct.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the stage of demographic transition can be defined by the condition where birth rate and death rate are equal, reflecting the balance achieved after the transition from pre-industrial to post-industrial society.

**Final Answer**: Birth rate and death rate are equal.

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