Top 10 Rural States of India

India's diversity is not just limited to its culture and heritage but also extends to its geographical and demographic attributes. One significant way to understand this diversity is by looking at the urban-rural divide within states.

Himachal Pradesh, renowned for its serene landscapes and hilly terrain, stands out as the most rural state with nearly 90% of its population residing in rural areas. With 89.97% of its people living in the countryside, it portrays a life far from the urban hustle, enriched with traditional values and lifestyles.

Bihar, one of India's most populous states, comes next with a whopping 9.23 Crores of its population living in rural areas, making up 88.71% of the state's total population. Assam, with its tea gardens and rich biodiversity, follows closely with 85.9% of its population living in rural settings.

Odisha, known for its temples and beaches, has 83.31% of its residents in rural areas. While Meghalaya, a state known for its matrilineal society and breathtaking landscapes, has around 79.93% of its population in rural areas.

The populous state of Uttar Pradesh also leans heavily towards its rural side with 77.73% of its residents living outside urban centers. Similarly, Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan have significant portions of their population residing in rural settings.

This significant rural populace in these states indicates a dependency on agriculture, traditional professions, and a lifestyle that's intricately linked with nature. It also points to the challenges and opportunities these states have in terms of infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and employment avenues.

As India marches towards modernization, it's essential to ensure that the essence of its rural heartland is preserved while simultaneously pushing for growth, development, and inclusion.