A subcentre in a hilly area caters to a population of:
In India, primary health centers (PHCs) and subcentres are part of the public health infrastructure. I remember that in plains, a subcentre serves around 5000 people, but in hilly or tribal areas, the norm is lower because these regions are more difficult to access. The exact number might be 3000. Let me verify.
Yes, according to the National Rural Health Mission guidelines, subcentres in plains cater to 5000 population, while in hilly, tribal, and difficult areas, it's 3000. This adjustment is made due to the challenges in reaching these areas, requiring more subcentres to ensure adequate healthcare coverage. The other options, like 2000 or 4000, don't fit the standard norms. So the correct answer is 3000.
**Core Concept**
The question assesses knowledge of the population norm for subcentres in hilly/tribal areas under India's public health system. Subcentres are the first-level health care units, with population norms adjusted based on terrain and accessibility.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In hilly, tribal, or difficult areas, a subcentre is mandated to serve **3000 people**. This lower norm accounts for geographic challenges, ensuring equitable healthcare access. The population norm is halved compared to plains (5000) due to logistical barriers and sparse population distribution.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** 2000 – Incorrect. This is below the standard norm and does not align with official guidelines.
**Option B:** 4000 – Incorrect. This would be closer to the plains’ norm but still less than the 5000 standard for non-hilly areas.
**Option D:** 5000 – Incorrect. This is the norm for subcentres in plains, not hilly areas.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember: **"3000 for hills, 5000 for plains."** Always associate hilly/tribal regions with the lower population norm to ensure exam readiness. This distinction is critical for NEET PG/PGI questions on public health infrastructure.
**Correct Answer: C. 3000**