India’s Population Hits 1.46 Billion: Fertility Rate Falls Below Replacement Level: Sample Q&A

Key Findings from the UN Report
1. India’s Population Growth and Fertility Decline
India’s population is estimated at 1.46 billion in 2025, making it the most populous country globally.
The total fertility rate (TFR) has dropped to 1.9 births per woman, below the replacement level of 2.1.
This decline indicates that future generations may not replace the current population without migration.

2. Demographic Shifts: Youth, Workforce, and Aging Population
Youth Population:
24% are aged 0-14
17% fall in the 10-19 bracket
26% are between 10-24 years
Working-Age Population (15-64): 68%, presenting a potential demographic dividend if supported by employment opportunities.
Elderly Population (65+): Currently at 7%, expected to rise as life expectancy improves.

3. Life Expectancy and Gender Differences
Men: 71 years
Women: 74 years

4. The Real Fertility Crisis: Reproductive Rights Matter
The UNFPA report, The Real Fertility Crisis, shifts focus from population panic to unmet reproductive goals.
Millions struggle to achieve their desired family size due to lack of education, healthcare, and autonomy.
The solution lies in reproductive agency—freedom to choose contraception, family planning, and healthcare.

5. Historical Progress and Remaining Challenges
1960s: Fertility rate was nearly 6 children per woman; only 24% used contraception.
Today: Improved education and healthcare reduced fertility to ~2 children per woman.
Persisting Inequalities: Disparities across states, income groups, and castes still hinder reproductive rights.

6. India’s Demographic Dividend Opportunity
With 68% of the population in the working age group, India can harness economic growth through skill development and job creation.
Andrea M. Wojnar (UNFPA India Representative) emphasizes:
“The real demographic dividend comes when everyone has the freedom to make informed reproductive choices.”


Sample Questions & Answers for Competitive Exams (SSC, PSC, etc.)
Q1: What is India’s estimated population in 2025 according to the UN report?
A1: India’s population is projected to reach 1.46 billion in 2025.
Q2: What is the replacement fertility rate, and how does India’s current rate compare?
A2: The replacement fertility rate is 2.1 births per woman, while India’s rate has fallen to 1.9.
Q3: What percentage of India’s population is of working age (15-64)?
A3: Approximately 68% of India’s population is in the working-age group.
Q4: What does the UNFPA report identify as the “real fertility crisis”?
A4: The real crisis is unmet reproductive goals, not overpopulation or underpopulation.
Q5: How has India’s fertility rate changed since the 1960s?
A5: In the 1960s, the fertility rate was nearly 6 children per woman, but today it has declined to around 2.