India now world’s most populated country, says UN report || ENGLISH || GOA365

India is now the most populous country in the world with 2.9 million more people than China, according to the latest data from the United Nations Population Fund. The latest figures were given under the category of ‘Demographic Indicators’ in the report.

It is the first time that India’s population has overtaken China’s since 1950 when the UN began to collect and release population data.

The UN report said 25% of India’s population is in the age group of 0-14, 18% in 10-19, 26% in the 10-24, 68% in 15-64, and 7% above 65. Experts said India now has a demographic advantage.

Its young population in a consumer-driven economy will be a major factor in driving the country’s development, and presents an enormous opportunity for the country’s economic growth.

Age group of 0-14 – 25%

➤Age group of 10-19 – 18%

➤Age group of 10-24 – 26%

➤Age group of 15-64 – 68%

➤Age group of 65 and above – 7%

India’s demographic diversity among states also provides unique opportunities to reap the benefits of demographic dividends. Different states are at various stages of demographic transition.

For example, an ageing population in southern India can meet its labour demands from the greater proportion of the youthful population in the northern and eastern parts of the country through conducive policies on inter-state migration