As of 2010, Christianity was the religion with the most followers worldwide, followed by Islam (Muslims) and Hinduism. In the forty years between 2010 and 2050, it is projected that the landscape of world religions will undergo some noticeable changes, with the number of Muslims almost catching up to Christians. The changes in population sizes of each religious group is largely dependent on demographic development, for example, the rise in the world's Christian population will largely be driven by population growth in Sub-Saharan Africa, while Muslim populations will rise across various regions of Africa and South Asia. As India's population is set to grow while China's goes into decline, this will be reflected in the fact that Hindus will outnumber the unaffiliated by 2050. In fact, India may be home to both the largest Hindu and Muslim populations in the world by the middle of this century.

According to India's last census in 2011, the Muslim population had about 24.6 percent of decadal growth rate, while Hindus had a decadal growth rate of 16.8 percent. India, a secular nation provides religious freedom as a fundamental right under the constitution to its citizens.

It was estimated that by 2050, India's Muslim population would grow by ** percent compared to 2010. For followers of the Hindu faith, this change stood at ** percent. According to this projection, the south Asian country would be home not just to the world's majority of Hindus, but also Muslims by this time period. Regardless, the latter would continue to remain a minority within the country at ** percent, with ** percent or *** billion Hindus at the forefront by 2050.

India Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Urban data was reported at 68,740,419.000 Person in 2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 49,393,496.000 Person for 2001. India Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Urban data is updated yearly, averaging 59,066,957.500 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 68,740,419.000 Person in 2011 and a record low of 49,393,496.000 Person in 2001. India Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Urban data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Census of India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE001: Census: Population: by Religion.

India Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Male data was reported at 498,306,968.000 Person in 2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 428,678,554.000 Person for 2001. India Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Male data is updated yearly, averaging 463,492,761.000 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 498,306,968.000 Person in 2011 and a record low of 428,678,554.000 Person in 2001. India Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Male data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Census of India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE001: Census: Population: by Religion.

Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Uttar Pradesh data was reported at 159,312,654.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 133,979,263.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Uttar Pradesh data is updated decadal, averaging 146,645,958.500 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 159,312,654.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 133,979,263.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Uttar Pradesh data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE002: Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu.

The statistic shows the total population of India from 2019 to 2029. In 2023, the estimated total population in India amounted to approximately 1.43 billion people.

Total population in India

India currently has the second-largest population in the world and is projected to overtake top-ranking China within forty years. Its residents comprise more than one-seventh of the entire world’s population, and despite a slowly decreasing fertility rate (which still exceeds the replacement rate and keeps the median age of the population relatively low), an increasing life expectancy adds to an expanding population. In comparison with other countries whose populations are decreasing, such as Japan, India has a relatively small share of aged population, which indicates the probability of lower death rates and higher retention of the existing population.

With a land mass of less than half that of the United States and a population almost four times greater, India has recognized potential problems of its growing population. Government attempts to implement family planning programs have achieved varying degrees of success. Initiatives such as sterilization programs in the 1970s have been blamed for creating general antipathy to family planning, but the combined efforts of various family planning and contraception programs have helped halve fertility rates since the 1960s. The population growth rate has correspondingly shrunk as well, but has not yet reached less than one percent growth per year.

As home to thousands of ethnic groups, hundreds of languages, and numerous religions, a cohesive and broadly-supported effort to reduce population growth is difficult to create. Despite that, India is one country to watch in coming years. It is also a growing economic power; among other measures, its GDP per capita was expected to triple between 2003 and 2013 and was listed as the third-ranked country for its share of the global gross domestic product.

Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Uttarakhand data was reported at 1,406,825.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 1,012,141.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Uttarakhand data is updated decadal, averaging 1,209,483.000 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,406,825.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 1,012,141.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Uttarakhand data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE003: Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim.

In 1800, the population of the region of present-day India was approximately 169 million. The population would grow gradually throughout the 19th century, rising to over 240 million by 1900. Population growth would begin to increase in the 1920s, as a result of falling mortality rates, due to improvements in health, sanitation and infrastructure. However, the population of India would see it’s largest rate of growth in the years following the country’s independence from the British Empire in 1948, where the population would rise from 358 million to over one billion by the turn of the century, making India the second country to pass the billion person milestone. While the rate of growth has slowed somewhat as India begins a demographics shift, the country’s population has continued to grow dramatically throughout the 21st century, and in 2020, India is estimated to have a population of just under 1.4 billion, well over a billion more people than one century previously. Today, approximately 18% of the Earth’s population lives in India, and it is estimated that India will overtake China to become the most populous country in the world within the next five years.

Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Lakshadweep: Male data was reported at 1,603.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,776.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Lakshadweep: Male data is updated decadal, averaging 1,689.500 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,776.000 Person in 03-01-2001 and a record low of 1,603.000 Person in 03-01-2011. Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Lakshadweep: Male data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE002: Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu.

Religious Food Market Outlook

The global religious food market size was valued at approximately USD 1.5 trillion in 2023 and is expected to reach around USD 2.8 trillion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.2% during the forecast period. This market's growth is primarily driven by increasing consumer awareness and demand for food products that align with their religious beliefs and practices.

The burgeoning awareness and sensitivity towards cultural and religious practices have significantly boosted the religious food market. Consumers are becoming more conscientious about the sources and preparation methods of their food, seeking assurance that their dietary choices adhere to their religious standards. This shift is further amplified by the growing multicultural population worldwide, where diverse religious communities seek to maintain their dietary traditions. Additionally, globalization and the ease of information access have made it easier for people to learn about and demand religiously compliant food products, thereby expanding the market's reach.

Health and wellness trends also play a critical role in the growth of the religious food market. Many religious food practices, such as Halal, Kosher, and vegetarianism, emphasize purity, cleanliness, and the humane treatment of animals, which align with the broader health-conscious movement. Consumers often perceive these foods as healthier and safer, driving demand not only from religious groups but also from health-conscious non-religious consumers. This convergence of religious adherence and health consciousness has created a robust demand for religious food products, further propelling market growth.

Technological advancements and innovations in food production and distribution have facilitated the growth of the religious food market. The development of sophisticated certification processes and technologies ensures that food products meet stringent religious standards, bolstering consumer confidence. Moreover, the rise of e-commerce and online distribution channels has made it easier for consumers to access a wide variety of religious food products, breaking down geographical barriers and catering to the needs of a global market.

Halal Food and Beverage products are increasingly gaining traction in the global market, not only among Muslim consumers but also among those who are health-conscious and environmentally aware. The principles of Halal emphasize cleanliness, purity, and ethical treatment of animals, which resonate with the broader health and wellness trends. This has led to a surge in demand for Halal-certified products, as consumers seek assurance that their food choices align with their ethical and health values. The Halal certification process itself has become a mark of quality and safety, attracting a diverse consumer base beyond religious boundaries. As the global population becomes more multicultural, the appeal of Halal Food and Beverage products continues to grow, offering significant opportunities for market expansion.

Regionally, the religious food market exhibits significant growth potential across various geographies. In the Asia Pacific region, countries with large Muslim and Hindu populations, such as Indonesia and India, represent substantial markets for Halal and vegetarian foods. North America and Europe, with their growing multicultural populations and increasing adoption of health and wellness trends, also show strong demand for Kosher, Halal, and vegan products. Middle East & Africa, being predominantly Muslim, naturally has a high demand for Halal food products. Latin America, though smaller in market size compared to other regions, is witnessing gradual growth driven by increased awareness and import of religious food products.

Product Type Analysis

The religious food market is segmented by product type into Halal, Kosher, Vegetarian, Vegan, and Others. Halal food, adhering to Islamic dietary laws, represents one of the largest segments in this market. The demand for Halal food is driven by the growing Muslim population worldwide and the increasing awareness about Halal certification. Countries with significant Muslim populations, such as Indonesia, Pakistan, and India, exhibit high demand for Halal products. Additionally, non-Muslim consumers who perceive Halal food as healthier and safer are also contributing to the growth of this segment.

Kosher food, prepared according to Jewish dietary laws, is an

Population, female (% of total population) in India was reported at 48.42 % in 2024, according to the World Bank collection of development indicators, compiled from officially recognized sources. India - Population, female (% of total) - actual values, historical data, forecasts and projections were sourced from the World Bank on July of 2025.

The global religious food market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing global population adhering to various religious diets and a rising demand for ethically sourced and sustainably produced food products. This market, estimated at $50 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated market value of approximately $90 billion by 2033. Key drivers include the expanding global middle class, particularly in developing economies, which fuels increased disposable income and spending on premium food products catering to specific dietary needs. Furthermore, rising awareness of health and wellness, coupled with a growing preference for natural and organic food options, significantly boosts this market segment. The increasing availability of religious food products through various distribution channels, including supermarkets, specialty stores, and online platforms, further contributes to the market's expansion. The market is segmented by food type (Hindu, Halal, Kosher, and Others) and application (Restaurant, Hotel, Home, and Others), offering diversified opportunities for market players. While specific regional breakdowns are not fully provided, it is expected that regions with large populations adhering to specific religious diets, such as the Middle East & Africa and Asia Pacific, will show the highest growth rates. Challenges include maintaining consistent quality and authenticity across diverse supply chains and navigating the complexities of complying with varied religious regulations across geographical regions. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of multinational food giants like Nestlé and Unilever, alongside regional players specializing in specific religious food segments. Strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and product innovations are crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. The market is witnessing an increasing focus on customization, with companies catering to specific dietary needs within each religious group (e.g., vegetarian Hindu options, or specific halal certifications). Sustainability concerns are also gaining traction, with consumers seeking eco-friendly and ethically sourced ingredients, driving the demand for products with sustainable certifications and transparent supply chains. The continued growth of e-commerce and online food delivery services further presents opportunities for expanding market reach and penetration. The market is poised for continued expansion, driven by the confluence of demographic shifts, evolving consumer preferences, and technological advancements.

In 1800, the population of the area of modern-day Bangladesh was estimated to be just over 19 million, a figure which would rise steadily throughout the 19th century, reaching over 26 million by 1900. At the time, Bangladesh was the eastern part of the Bengal region in the British Raj, and had the most-concentrated Muslim population in the subcontinent's east. At the turn of the 20th century, the British colonial administration believed that east Bengal was economically lagging behind the west, and Bengal was partitioned in 1905 as a means of improving the region's development. East Bengal then became the only Muslim-majority state in the eastern Raj, which led to socioeconomic tensions between the Hindu upper classes and the general population. Bengal Famine During the Second World War, over 2.5 million men from across the British Raj enlisted in the British Army and their involvement was fundamental to the war effort. The war, however, had devastating consequences for the Bengal region, as the famine of 1943-1944 resulted in the deaths of up to three million people (with over two thirds thought to have been in the east) due to starvation and malnutrition-related disease. As the population boomed in the 1930s, East Bengal's mismanaged and underdeveloped agricultural sector could not sustain this growth; by 1942, food shortages spread across the region, millions began migrating in search of food and work, and colonial mismanagement exacerbated this further. On the brink of famine in early-1943, authorities in India called for aid and permission to redirect their own resources from the war effort to combat the famine, however these were mostly rejected by authorities in London. While the exact extent of each of these factors on causing the famine remains a topic of debate, the general consensus is that the British War Cabinet's refusal to send food or aid was the most decisive. Food shortages did not dissipate until late 1943, however famine deaths persisted for another year. Partition to independence Following the war, the movement for Indian independence reached its final stages as the process of British decolonization began. Unrest between the Raj's Muslim and Hindu populations led to the creation of two separate states in1947; the Muslim-majority regions became East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and West Pakistan (now Pakistan), separated by the Hindu-majority India. Although East Pakistan's population was larger, power lay with the military in the west, and authorities grew increasingly suppressive and neglectful of the eastern province in the following years. This reached a tipping point when authorities failed to respond adequately to the Bhola cyclone in 1970, which claimed over half a million lives in the Bengal region, and again when they failed to respect the results of the 1970 election, in which the Bengal party Awami League won the majority of seats. Bangladeshi independence was claimed the following March, leading to a brutal war between East and West Pakistan that claimed between 1.5 and three million deaths in just nine months. The war also saw over half of the country displaced, widespread atrocities, and the systematic rape of hundreds of thousands of women. As the war spilled over into India, their forces joined on the side of Bangladesh, and Pakistan was defeated two weeks later. An additional famine in 1974 claimed the lives of several hundred thousand people, meaning that the early 1970s was one of the most devastating periods in the country's history. Independent Bangladesh In the first decades of independence, Bangladesh's political hierarchy was particularly unstable and two of its presidents were assassinated in military coups. Since transitioning to parliamentary democracy in the 1990s, things have become comparatively stable, although political turmoil, violence, and corruption are persistent challenges. As Bangladesh continues to modernize and industrialize, living standards have increased and individual wealth has risen. Service industries have emerged to facilitate the demands of Bangladesh's developing economy, while manufacturing industries, particularly textiles, remain strong. Declining fertility rates have seen natural population growth fall in recent years, although the influx of Myanmar's Rohingya population due to the displacement crisis has seen upwards of one million refugees arrive in the country since 2017. In 2020, it is estimated that Bangladesh has a population of approximately 165 million people.

Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Uttarakhand data was reported at 8,368,636.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 7,212,260.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Uttarakhand data is updated decadal, averaging 7,790,448.000 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 8,368,636.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 7,212,260.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Uttarakhand data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE002: Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu.

India Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Female data was reported at 467,950,385.000 Person in 2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 398,900,314.000 Person for 2001. India Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Female data is updated yearly, averaging 433,425,349.500 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 467,950,385.000 Person in 2011 and a record low of 398,900,314.000 Person in 2001. India Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Female data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Census of India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE002: Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu.

Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: West Bengal data was reported at 64,385,546.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 58,104,835.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: West Bengal data is updated decadal, averaging 61,245,190.500 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 64,385,546.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 58,104,835.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: West Bengal data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE002: Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu.

Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Arunachal Pradesh: Male data was reported at 225,172.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 217,195.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Arunachal Pradesh: Male data is updated decadal, averaging 221,183.500 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 225,172.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 217,195.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu: Arunachal Pradesh: Male data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE002: Census: Population: by Religion: Hindu.

With almost all major religions being practiced throughout the country, India is known for its religious diversity. Islam makes up the highest share among minority faiths in the country. According to the Indian census of 2011, the Muslim population in Uttar Pradesh more than ** million, making it the state with the most Muslims.

Socio-economic conditions of Muslims
Muslims seem to lag behind every other religious community in India in terms of living standards, financial stability, education and other aspects, thereby showing poor performance in most of the fields. According to a national survey, 17 percent of the Muslims were categorized under the lowest wealth index, which indicates poor socio-economic conditions.

Growth of Muslim population in India
Islam is one of the fastest-growing religions worldwide. According to India’s census, the Muslim population has witnessed a negative decadal growth of more than ** percent from 1951 to 1960, presumably due to the partitions forming Pakistan and Bangladesh. The population showed a positive and steady growth since 1961, making up ** percent of the total population of India . Even though people following Islam were estimated to grow significantly, they would still remain a minority in India compared to *** billion Hindus by 2050.