India's population hits 1.46 billion, fertility rate declines: UN

India's population is expected to reach 1.46 billion in 2025, retaining its position as the world's most populous country, according to the United Nations Population Fund's (UNFPA) State of World Population 2025 report, The Real Fertility Crisis.

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The report reveals India's total fertility rate has declined to 1.9 births per woman—below the replacement level of 2.1—signalling a major demographic shift.

Despite the falling birth rate, India has a sizeable youth population: 24 per cent are aged 0-14, 17 per cent are 10-19, and 26 per cent fall in the 10-24 age group. A significant 68 per cent of the population is of working age (15-64), presenting a demographic dividend opportunity if supported by suitable policies and employment.