AP has most number of centenarians in South India

Andhra Pradesh has the highest number of centenarians in South India, according to a recently released census data. The number of fairer sex in the age group of 100 and above is significantly higher than that of men. Researchers say that the improved life expectancy and growth of population are reasons behind the increased number of elderly people in the state. 
    There are 27,985 people aged 100 and above in AP and in comparison Tamil Nadu has 12,654, Kerala 5,431 and Karnataka 22,757 centenarians. The agewise population divide also shows that AP registered a 43% growth in the 60+ category since 2001. 
    The figures for AP are higher than other southern states though its life expectancy at birth is the lowest comparatively. Being the fifth-most populous state in the country, AP has 82.7 lakh people aged 60 and above. 
    The figures also reveal a pronounced difference between sexes in the rural areas compared to urban areas. Again, in the 100+ age category, there are more women than men in both rural and urban AP. 
    Surprisingly, the state has higher numbers in the 60+ category when compared to the more populous West Bengal and Bihar. West Bengal too has a life expectancy higher than Andhra Pradesh. 
    Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, the most populous states, also have the highest number of people in the 60+ category. The top five populous states, UP, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh, account for nearly half of country’s population in this age group. 
    Also of particular interest is the ratio of the number of people in the 60 plus age group compared to 15-59 age group, considered to be the driving force of theeconomy. Census authorities say a reduction in this ratio signifies a population change favourable to the economy.