Final answer:
The decline in Nepal's population as shown by the censuses can be attributed to an economic and social crisis leading to lower birth rates, high mortality rates due to health issues, and migration in search of better opportunities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The second and third censuses showed a decline in the population of Nepal. There are several possible reasons for this decline, and three of them include:
- Economic and social crisis: During times of crisis, people may delay or decide against having children due to uncertainty and financial instability. This leads to a decrease in birth rates.
- Health issues and mortality rates: High death rates due to factors such as alcoholism, heart disease, and the absence of a robust social safety net can lead to a population decline when they surpass birth rates.
- Migration for better opportunities: Increased migration due to economic development and industrialization in other regions can result in population decline as people leave rural areas searching for better education and job opportunities in developed cities or areas.
These factors, alone or in combination, could contribute to a population decline in a country like Nepal.