## **Core Concept**
A community health centre (CHC) is a type of healthcare facility that provides medical and health services to a specific population in a rural or underserved area. The population covered by a CHC is an important aspect of its planning and functioning. Typically, a CHC is designed to serve a population of 80,000 to 120,000 people.

## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, 80,000 to 120,000, reflects the standard population size that a community health centre is expected to cover. This population size is based on the assumption that the CHC will provide comprehensive primary healthcare services, including preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative services. The coverage area can vary slightly depending on the country's health policies, the region's health needs, and the availability of resources.

## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** This option suggests a population range that is significantly lower than what a CHC is designed to cover. A sub-centre, for instance, covers a population of 5,000 in plain areas and 3,000 in hilly, tribal, or backward areas.
- **Option B:** This option suggests a much higher population range than what is typically covered by a CHC. A district hospital, for example, might cover a population of 1-2 million people.
- **Option D:** This option also suggests a population range that is too low for a CHC but might be more appropriate for a primary health centre (PHC), which typically covers a population of 30,000 in plain areas and 20,000 in hilly, tribal, or backward areas.

## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is the hierarchical structure of healthcare facilities and their population coverage:
- Sub-centre: 5,000 (plain) / 3,000 (hilly/tribal/backward)
- Primary Health Centre (PHC): 30,000 (plain) / 20,000 (hilly/tribal/backward)
- Community Health Centre (CHC): 80,000 to 120,000

## **Correct Answer:** C. 80,000 to 120,000.