The most accurate statement regarding how India's population and economy likely affected the country during the COVID-19 crisis is:
b) large numbers of poor people were living close together, so the virus spread faster.
This statement reflects the reality that many individuals in India live in densely populated areas with limited access to healthcare, sanitation, and other resources, making it easier for the virus to spread. While there were efforts to control the virus and provide support, the socioeconomic conditions played a significant role in how the pandemic unfolded in the country.