Most Populated Country: India is now the most populated country in the world, surpassing China in 2023, with an estimated population of over 1.428 billion people. With its vast and diverse landscape, India’s population boom is driven by a high birth rate, a young demographic, and improving healthcare standards. India has officially overtaken China as per the United Nations’ World Population Prospects.
What makes India’s population unique is its extreme diversity in culture, languages, and regions, from bustling metros like Mumbai and Delhi to rural villages in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
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Which is the Most Populated Country in the World?
India's population is the largest in the world, with over 1.428 billion, very slightly larger than China's estimated population, which is actually declining. In terms of size only, there is significant meaning attributed to the statistics, as it engenders the most significant global shifts in demographic and economic power. India's population represents some 18% of the world’s population.
Top 7 Most Populated Countries in the World (2023–2024)
| Rank | Country | Population (Approx.) | Continent |
| 1 | India | 1.428 billion | Asia |
| 2 | China | 1.425 billion | Asia |
| 3 | United States | 339 million | North America |
| 4 | Indonesia | 277 million | Asia |
| 5 | Pakistan | 240 million | Asia |
| 6 | Nigeria | 223 million | Africa |
| 7 | Brazil | 216 million | South America |
Note: These population numbers are based on data from the United Nations, World Bank, and Worldometer, as of the 2023–2024 global estimates.
1. India
It's the world's most populated country. It's very diverse and young. Its economy is growing fast, especially in technology. It has rich culture and ancient history.
- China
It's the second most populated country. It has a huge economy and makes many goods. Cities grew very fast. It blends old traditions with new progress. It's a global power.
- United States
It's the third most populated country. It's a big country in North America. Its people are very diverse. It leads in new ideas and technology. It has the world's largest economy.
- Indonesia
It's the fourth most populated country. It's an Asian nation made of many islands. It has beautiful islands and rich cultures. Its economy is growing. Many religions are practised there.
- Pakistan
It's the fifth most populated country. It's in South Asia. Its economy is based on farming and clothes. It has a very old history and varied land. Its population is growing quickly.
- Nigeria
It's Africa's most populated country, sixth worldwide. It's a powerful West African nation. It produces a lot of oil. It has lively art and many different groups of people. Cities are growing fast.
- Brazil
It's the seventh most populated country. It's the biggest in South America. It has the Amazon rainforest and a lively culture. It grows a lot of food. It has beautiful beaches and rich natural resources.
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Why Are These Countries So Populated?
Population size is influenced by several factors:
- High birth rates in developing nations
- Improved healthcare leading to lower mortality
- Cultural and religious norms around family size
- Young population base, especially in countries like India and Nigeria
On the flip side, countries with ageing populations, such as Japan, South Korea, and even China, are seeing population slowdowns or declines.
What Is Population Density?
Population density refers to the number of people living per square kilometre. While India has the highest overall population, countries like Bangladesh and Monaco top the density chart. This metric helps show how crowded a place really is, not just how many people live there.
Fun Facts About the World’s Most Populated Countries
India Adds a City Every Month
India’s monthly population growth is equivalent to the population of an entire city — around 1 million people.
Megacities in China
Despite declining birth rates, China is home to over 100 cities with more than 1 million people.
Nigeria’s Baby Boom
By 2050, 1 in every 13 people in the world could be Nigerian if current trends continue.
Japan’s Decline
Japan’s population is shrinking faster than any other country, with more adult nappies sold than baby nappies.
Digital Demographics
India is now not just the most populated but also one of the fastest-growing internet markets in the world.
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