## **Core Concept**
The National Health Policy in India outlines the structure and coverage of various health facilities, including subcentres, which are the most peripheral and first contact point between the primary healthcare system and the community. Subcentres play a crucial role in providing basic medical and health services.

## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In hilly and tribal areas, the population density is often low, and accessibility can be difficult due to geographical constraints. Given these challenges, the subcentres in such areas are designed to cater to a smaller population compared to plain areas. Typically, a subcentre in plain areas covers a population of 5,000, whereas in hilly, tribal, or backward areas, it covers 3,000. This adjustment ensures that healthcare services are more accessible to these harder-to-reach populations.

## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** 5,000 is the standard population covered by a subcentre in plain areas, not in hilly or tribal areas.
- **Option B:** 10,000 is far beyond the coverage area for a standard subcentre and does not reflect the adjusted population for hilly or tribal areas.
- **Option D:** While 3,000 is correct for hilly and tribal areas, the question asks which option corresponds to the incorrect population.

## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that subcentres are adapted to the local population's needs, with adjustments made for geography and accessibility. In hilly and tribal areas, subcentres serve 3,000 people, highlighting the emphasis on equitable healthcare access.

## **Correct Answer:** . 3000.