Key Indicator

India

China

Notes

Population (2025)

146.39 crore (1.4639 billion)

141.61 crore (1.4161 billion)

India is now the most populous country in the world

Total Fertility Rate (TFR)

1.9

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Below replacement level (2.1); indicates population stabilisation

Population Forecast

To peak at ~170 crore in coming decades; decline expected in ~40 years

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Indicates long-term demographic transition

Life Expectancy (2025)

Men: 71 yearsWomen: 74 years

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Reflects improved healthcare and living standards

Working-Age Population

68% (15–64 years)

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Demographic dividend potential

Elderly Population (65+)

7%

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Growing segment due to increasing life expectancy

Data Sources

DHS, MICS, UN DESA projections

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UNFPA report based on global survey and projection sources

Practice Question:

Q. Consider the following statements:

1. Between Census 1951 and Census 2001, the density of the population of India has increased more than three times.
   
   
2. Between Census 1951 and Census 2001, the annual growth rate (exponential) of the population of India doubled.
   

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Options:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 

Correct Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation:

• Statement 1:
  In 1951, India’s population density was 117 persons per sq. km, and by 2001, it had risen to 324 persons per sq. km.
  This is less than three times (324 ÷ 117 ≈ 2.77), so Statement 1 is incorrect.
  
• Statement 2:
  The annual exponential growth rate was 1.25% in 1951–61, and around 1.93% in 1991–2001. It did not double, so Statement 2 is also incorrect.