India Still Most Populous In World But Baby Boom Shows Signs Of Slowing

India-West News Desk

NEW DELHI – India is set to remain the world’s most populous nation in 2025 with 1.46 billion people, but a sharp decline in fertility — now below the replacement level — signals a major demographic shift, according to the UNFPA’s 2025 State of World Population report.

The report highlights that Indian women now have an average of 1.9 children, down from nearly six in 1960, reflecting decades of progress in education, healthcare, and reproductive freedom. Yet millions still face barriers to realizing their reproductive goals, underscoring that the “real crisis” lies in unmet fertility choices rather than overpopulation.

Despite slowing births, India’s young population remains large, with 26% aged 10–24, and 68% of citizens in the working-age bracket, offering a potential demographic dividend if supported by adequate policies and employment opportunities.

Meanwhile, the elderly population is expected to rise as life expectancy reaches 71 for men and 74 for women.

The UN report stresses that the future demographic dividend hinges on expanding reproductive agency, ensuring that all women and couples can freely and safely make informed decisions about family size, timing, and childbearing.