India launched its 16th national census (Census 2027) on 1 April 2026, the world's largest digital-first population exercise. The census will collect a population count (number of people in the country) along with demographic, economic, and social statistics.
Currently, the world population is about 8.3 billion, increasing by roughly 70 to 80 million people each year. Where does India rank in population? Does India rank first in population? We will learn in this article.
The first census of India after independence was conducted in 1951. The 1951 census was also the first census to be conducted under the 1948 Census of India Act. It was the 7th in the series, which began in 1881 under British rule. Since then the census has been conducted every 10 years. Census 2027 has been the first to be conducted after a 16-year gap.
Which Country Ranks First in Population?
As of 2026, India ranks first in population. As per the latest data from the United Nations' World Population Dashboard, India has the largest population with 1.46 billion people (146.39 crore) and growing.
India is the most populous country in the world. India roughly accounts for 17.8 per cent of the world's population.
India surpassed China on 24 April 2023 as the most populous country. India's population is expected to continue growing to over 1.6 billion by 2050.
India remains to be a relatively young country. Approximately 68 per cent are aged 15 to 64 years, which is indicative of a large working-age population.
1881 Census Key Data vs 2026 Census Key Data
In 1881, India's population was 253.89 million (25.5 crore). Since 1881, India experienced a 5.5x growth in population from 253.89 million (25.5 crore) to 1.46 billion people (146 crore). While back in 1881, India stood second after China in population. Today, China is at second position with 1.42 billion.
| Indicator | 1881 Census | 2026 Census |
| Population | 253.89 million (25.5 crore) | 1.46 billion people (146.39 crore) |
| Growth rate | ~0.9 per cent annually; adding ~34 million people | ~0.89 per cent annually; adding ~13 million people |
| Median age | ~20 to 21 years | ~29 to 30 years |
| Literacy rate | ~3.2 per cent | ~80 per cent |
| Urban population | ~9 to 10 per cent | ~35 to 40 per cent |
| Fertility rate | ~5 to 6 children per woman | ~2 children per woman (near replacement level) |
| Life expectancy | ~25 to 30 years | ~70 to 72 years |
Top 5 Most Populated Countries in the World
Here is the list of the top 5 countries with highest population, as of 2026:
1. India: ~1.46 billion
2. China: ~1.42 billion
3. United States: ~347 million
4. Indonesia: ~285 million
5. Pakistan: ~255 million
Also read: Which Country Is The Largest Importer of Indian Seafood?
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