Most Populous Country in the World 2024, Check the List of Top-10

India has recently surpassed China to become the most populous country in the world. With a population of about 142.86 crore (1.428 billion), India now leads by roughly 2.9 crore (29.56 million). This milestone highlights the challenges and opportunities that come with such a large population. In this article, we will know more about the most populous country in the world and the list of top-10 largest countries in terms of population.

India’s Youth Population

India has the largest youth population in the world. Over 908 million people, or 66% of the total population, are under the age of 35. Among them, more than 255 million are there in the 15-24 age group, making India a youthful nation.

This young population can contribute significantly to India’s growth, as it provides a strong workforce. However, it also poses challenges like ensuring proper education, healthcare, and job opportunities for such a large group.

How Population Data is Collected?

Population data includes the total number of people, birth and death rates, life expectancy and population growth trends. These details are often collected through censuses, which are conducted regularly. In some countries, population registers are used to gather similar information more frequently.

Top-10 Largest Countries of the World 2024

India, with the total population of 1,428,627,663 and 17.76% of world’s population, stands as the largest country in the world in terms of population, followed by China, United States and Indonesia.

Here is the list of top-10 largest countries in the world 2024 in terms of population:

Rank	Country	Population	World Share (In %)
1	India	1,428,627,663	17.76
2	China	1,425,671,352	17.72
3	United States	339,996,563	4.23
4	Indonesia	277,534,122	3.45
5	Pakistan	240,485,658	2.99
6	Nigeria	223,804,632	2.78
7	Brazil	216,422,446	2.69
8	Bangladesh	172,954,319	2.15
9	Russia	144,444,359	1.80
10	Mexico	128,455,567	1.60

Causes of India’s High Population

 

• Historical population trends: Throughout history, India has maintained a consistently high population, particularly in its fertile northern plains. This region’s favorable climate allows for the cultivation of both wheat and rice, providing abundant food compared to many other parts of the world.
• Poverty and illiteracy: Impoverished families often believe that a larger family translates to more earning members. Some view having more children as a way to ensure support in old age. The prevalence of poverty and illiteracy also affect family planning decisions.
• Age-old cultural norms: Traditional beliefs in India prioritize sons as the primary breadwinners for families. This long-standing belief puts significant pressure on parents to continue having children until a male child or the desired number of male children are born, known as “Son Meta preference”.
• Illegal migration: Notably, illegal migration from neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Nepal has contributed to increased population density in India.
• Lack of awareness about family planning: Limited knowledge and awareness about family planning methods and their benefits, as well as government schemes related to family welfare and access to free birth control measures, have resulted in unwanted pregnancies and ultimately contributed to population growth.

Ways to Manage Population Growth

 

• Raise the minimum age of marriage
• Promote education
• Encourage adoption
• Urbanization
• Support family planning