India has overtaken China to become the world’s most populous country, according to the latest data released by the United Nations. As per UN estimates, India’s population is currently at 1.43 billion (142.86 crore), whereas China’s population stands at 1.42 billion (142.57 crore). This is the first time that India has surpassed China in the UN’s list of most populous countries since 1950, when the organization began collecting population data.
India’s Population Growth
While China is facing a decline in population growth due to aging and plummeting birth rates, India’s population continues to grow. Though India’s last census was conducted in 2011, and there is no recent official data on the country’s population, various agencies have predicted that India’s population will keep rising for almost the next three decades before it eventually peaks at 1.65 billion, after which it would start to decline.
According to the new UN report, nearly 25% of India’s population is under the age of 14, whereas 68% falls in the 15 to 64 age group, and 7% is above the age of 65. This demographic profile could provide India with a significant advantage, as a large young workforce could help fuel economic growth in the country.
Delay in Census
India’s once-in-a-decade census, which was scheduled for 2021, has been delayed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The census is critical in providing an accurate picture of India’s population, as well as demographic and socio-economic data that can help policymakers develop targeted policies and plans.
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Global Population
The new UN report also estimates that the global population will reach 8.045 billion by mid-2023. While India’s population continues to grow, several other countries in Europe and Asia are expected to experience a demographic slump over the coming decades, according to other UN figures published in July 2022. These figures forecast how the world’s population will develop between now and 2100.
Conclusion
India’s population surpassing China’s is a significant milestone in the country’s history. However, India still faces various challenges, such as poverty, healthcare, and education, that need to be addressed for the country to realize its full potential. Accurate data is crucial to developing policies and plans to address these challenges, and it is essential that India conducts its census as soon as possible to ensure that policymakers have the necessary information.
Source: NDTV
