According to the latest census data, Lakshadweep, the island union territory had the highest share of Muslim population in the country, where ** percent of its population identified as followers of the Islamic faith. Jammu & Kashmir ranked second at ** percent during the same time period. 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.

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.

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.

According to data published by Ipsos, Indian respondents overestimated the proportion of Muslim population in their country. On average, the respondents thought that around ** out of every 100 people in India were Muslims, when the actual share of Muslim population was around ** percent in the country.

This study aimed to investigate the genomic diversity and population structure in the Muslim community of Telangana, India, using 23 autosomal microsatellite genetic markers. We also examined genetic relatedness between Muslim and non-Muslim populations of India. A sample of 184 randomly selected unrelated healthy Muslim individuals from the Telangana state were included in this study. The genotyping of 23 autosomal STR markers included in PowerPlex® Fusion 6 C multiplex system (Promega)was done. A total of 273 alleles were observed in the studied population, and locus SE33 showed 37 observed alleles, which is the highest number of observed alleles among all the studied loci. Among all the studied loci the most polymorphic and discriminatory locus was SE33, with the values of polymorphic information content (PIC) = 9.411E–01 and power of discrimination (PD) = 9.865E–01. Observed heterozygosity ranged from 6.630E–01 (D22S1045) to 9.239E–01 (SE33). Discrimination power, exclusion power, matching probability and paternity index for all the studied loci were 1.00E + 00, 1.00E + 00, 2.01E–28, and 5.68E + 09, respectively. The studied Muslim population showed genetic relatedness with non-Muslim populations i.e. populations of central India, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, suggesting the conversion of Hindus during the Muslim invasion. Neighbor-joining (NJ) tree and principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the studied population showed genetic affinity with communities of Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh states. The genetic data of this study may be useful for forensic, medical, and anthropological studies.

According to India's last census in 2011, about **** percent of the total population identified as Muslims. This was an increase from about ten percent in 1951. Overall, India has been a religiously pluralistic and multiethnic democracy with people of several faiths.

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 2020, Indonesia recorded the largest population of Muslims worldwide, with around 239 million. This was followed with around 226.88 million Muslims in Pakistan and 213 million Muslims in India.

Islam is the major religion in many African countries, especially in the north of the continent. In Comoros, Libya, Western Sahara, at least 99 percent of the population was Muslim as of 202. These were the highest percentages on the continent. However, also in many other African nations, the majority of the population was Muslim. In Egypt, for instance, Islam was the religion of 79 percent of the people. Islam and other religions in Africa Africa accounts for an important share of the world’s Muslim population. As of 2019, 16 percent of the Muslims worldwide lived in Sub-Saharan Africa, while 20 percent of them lived in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Together with Christianity, Islam is the most common religious affiliation in Africa, followed by several traditional African religions. Although to a smaller extent, numerous other religions are practiced on the continent: these include Judaism, the Baha’i Faith, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Number of Muslims worldwide Islam is one of the most widespread religions in the world. There are approximately 1.9 billion Muslims globally, with the largest Muslim communities living in the Asia-Pacific region. Specifically, Indonesia hosts the highest number of Muslims worldwide, amounting to over 200 million, followed by India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Islam is also present in Europe and America. The largest Islamic communities in Europe are in France (5.72 million), Germany (4.95 million), and the United Kingdom (4.13 million). In the United States, there is an estimated number of around 3.45 million Muslims.

Global Religious Demographics

Global religious demographics over time

By Throwback Thursday [source]

About this dataset

The dataset contains information on a wide range of religions, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Shintoism, Baha'i Faith, Taoism, Confucianism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism, Syncretic Religions (religious practices that blend elements from multiple faiths), Animism (belief in spiritual beings in nature), Non-Religious individuals or those without any religious affiliation.

For each religion and region/country combination recorded in the dataset we have the following information:

• Total population: The total population of the region or country.
• Religious affiliation percentages: The percentages of the population that identify with specific religious affiliations.
• Subgroup populations/percentages: The populations or percentages within specific denominations or sects of each religion.

The dataset also provides additional variables like Year and State Name (for regional data) for further analysis.

How to use the dataset

• Understanding the Columns

  The dataset contains several columns with different categories of information. Here's a brief explanation of some important columns:

  • Year: The year in which the data was recorded.
  • Total Population: The total population of a country or region.
  • State Name (StateNme): The name of the state or region.

  Each religion has specific columns associated with it, such as Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Taoism, Shintoism etc., representing its percentage and population for each category/denomination within that religion.

• Selecting Specific Data

  If you are interested in exploring data related to a particular religion or geographic location:

  • To filter data by Religion: Identify relevant columns associated with that religion such as 'Christianity', 'Buddhism', 'Islam', etc., and extract their respective percentage and population values for analysis.

    Example: If you want to analyze Christianity specifically, extract columns related to Christianity like 'Christianity (Percent)', 'Christianity (Population)', etc.

    Note: There might be multiple columns related to a specific religion indicating different categories or denominations within that religion.

  • To filter data by Geographic Location: Utilize the 'State Name' column ('StateNme') to segregate data corresponding to different states/regions.

    Example: If you want to analyze religious demographics for a particular state/region like California or India:

    i) Filter out rows where State Name is equal to California or India.

    ii) Extract relevant columns associated with your selected religion as mentioned above.

• Finding Trends and Insights

  Once you have selected the specific data you are interested in, examine patterns and trends over time or across different regions.

  • Plotting data using visualizations: Use graphical tools such as line charts, bar charts, or pie charts to visualize how religious demographics have changed over the years or vary across different regions.

  • Analyzing population proportions: By comparing the percentage values of different religions for a given region or over time, you can gather insights into changes in religious diversity.

• Comparing Religions

  If you wish to compare multiple religions:

Research Ideas

• Comparing religious affiliations across different countries or regions: With data on various religions such as Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, Hinduism, etc., researchers can compare the religious affiliations of different countries or regions. This can help in understanding the cultural and religious diversity within different parts of the world.
• Exploring the growth or decline of specific religions: By examining population numbers for specific religions such as Jainism, Taoism, Zoroastrianism, etc., this dataset can be used to investigate the growth or decline of these religious groups over time. Researchers can analyze factors contributing to their popularity or decline in particular regions or countries

Acknowledgements

If you use this dataset in your research, please credit the original authors. Data Source

License

See the dataset description for more information.

Columns

File: ThrowbackDataThursday 201912 - Religion.csv | Column name...

Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Uttarakhand: Male data was reported at 740,057.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 539,740.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Uttarakhand: Male data is updated decadal, averaging 639,898.500 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 740,057.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 539,740.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Uttarakhand: 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.GAE003: Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim.

The average for 2013 based on 13 countries was 34.6 percent. The highest value was in Iran: 90 percent and the lowest value was in India: 3 percent. The indicator is available from 1960 to 2013. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

Halal Certification Services Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the Halal Certification Services market size reached USD 4.6 billion in 2024, demonstrating robust expansion driven by increasing global demand for halal-compliant products across diverse industries. The market is exhibiting a notable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.8% from 2025 to 2033. By the end of 2033, the market is projected to reach a value of USD 11.5 billion, propelled by the rising awareness of halal standards, expanding Muslim populations, and the globalization of food and non-food supply chains. As per our latest research, key growth drivers include stringent regulatory requirements, consumer preference for quality assurance, and the rapid expansion of halal-certified product portfolios across both developed and emerging markets.

One of the primary growth factors for the halal certification services market is the significant increase in the global Muslim population, which is expected to surpass 2.2 billion by 2030. This demographic shift is fueling demand for halal-certified products, not only in food and beverages but also in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care. As Muslim consumers become more conscious of their dietary and lifestyle choices, manufacturers and service providers are compelled to adhere to halal standards to capture this expanding market segment. This trend is further amplified by the growing middle class in Muslim-majority countries, leading to higher disposable incomes and increased spending on halal-certified goods and services.

Another key driver is the globalization of supply chains and the increasing complexity of international trade. As products cross borders, there is a heightened need for credible and recognized halal certification services to ensure compliance with diverse regulatory frameworks. Multinational corporations, exporters, and retailers are seeking reliable certification partners to facilitate market access and build consumer trust. The proliferation of halal certification bodies and the harmonization of standards across regions are also supporting market growth, enabling smoother trade and reducing barriers for halal-certified products in both Muslim-majority and non-Muslim-majority countries.

Technological advancements and digitization are also playing a pivotal role in shaping the growth trajectory of the halal certification services market. The adoption of blockchain, artificial intelligence, and digital traceability solutions is enhancing transparency, efficiency, and trust in the certification process. These innovations are helping to address common challenges such as fraud, mislabeling, and supply chain opacity. As regulatory authorities and consumers demand greater assurance regarding the authenticity of halal claims, technology-driven certification services are becoming increasingly attractive to businesses seeking to differentiate themselves in a competitive marketplace.

From a regional perspective, the Asia Pacific region dominates the halal certification services market, accounting for over 45% of the global market share in 2024. This is primarily due to the large Muslim populations in Indonesia, Malaysia, India, and Pakistan, as well as the proactive efforts of governments in these countries to promote halal industries. The Middle East & Africa region follows closely, driven by strong religious adherence and government mandates. North America and Europe are experiencing steady growth, fueled by increasing awareness among non-Muslim consumers and the diversification of halal-certified offerings beyond traditional food and beverage products. Each region presents unique opportunities and challenges, reflecting variations in consumer preferences, regulatory landscapes, and market maturity.

Service Type Analysis

The service type segment of the halal certification services market is categorized into product certification, process certification, system certification, and others. Product certification remains the most sought-after service, accounting for the largest share of the market in 2024. This dominance is attributed to the growing demand for halal-certified food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, as consumers and regulatory authorities emphasize the importance of product integrity and compliance. Product certification services ensure that each item meets the stringent requirements o

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.

Pew Research Center surveyed 13,122 adults across six countries in Asia about religious identity, beliefs, and practices, using nationally representative methods. Interviews were conducted face-to-face in Cambodia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. They were conducted on mobile phones in Malaysia and Singapore. Local interviewers administered the survey from June to September 2022, in eight languages.

This survey is part of the Pew-Templeton Global Religious Futures project, a broader effort by Pew Research Center to study religious change and its impact on societies around the world. The Center previously has conducted religion-focused surveys across sub-Saharan Africa; the Middle East-North Africa region and many countries with large Muslim populations; Latin America; Israel; Central and Eastern Europe; Western Europe; India; and the United States.

This survey includes three countries in which Buddhists make up a majority of the population (Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand); two countries with Muslim majorities (Malaysia and Indonesia); and one country that is religiously diverse, with no single group forming a majority (Singapore). We also are surveying five additional countries and territories in Asia, to be covered in a future report.

Pew Research Center has produced a supplemental syntax file containing SPSS code to generate common analytic variables in the survey's corresponding report and toplines. The ARDA has provided this syntax in a copyable PDF document as an additional download.

According to a survey conducted in 2020, 54 percent of Indian Americans in the United States said that they identified as Hindu while 13 percent said that they identified as Muslim. A further nine percent said that they identified with no religion in particular.

According to a survey conducted in 2022, Muslims were the most likely religious group to agree with certain anti-Muslim stereotypes about Muslims living in the United States. 24 percent of surveyed Muslims agreed with the statement that most Muslims living in the United States were more prone to violence than other people, compared to only nine percent of the general public who shared this belief.

Halal-Friendly Menu Implementation Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the Global Halal-Friendly Menu Implementation market size was valued at $22.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $48.5 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 8.7% during 2024–2033. The primary driver for this robust expansion is the increasing demand for halal-certified offerings among both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers, driven by rising health consciousness, globalization of food cultures, and growing awareness of ethical food sourcing. As consumer preferences evolve and regulatory frameworks strengthen, businesses across the hospitality, food service, and retail sectors are rapidly adopting halal-friendly menu strategies to capture a broader market share and ensure compliance with global halal standards.

Regional Outlook

The Asia Pacific region currently holds the largest share of the Halal-Friendly Menu Implementation market, accounting for approximately 38% of the global market value in 2024. This dominance is attributed to the presence of the world’s largest Muslim populations in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and India, where halal dietary laws are deeply embedded in daily life and culture. Governments in these countries have established stringent halal certification bodies and policies, ensuring consumer trust and fostering a mature ecosystem for halal menu offerings. Additionally, the proliferation of international tourism and the expansion of global food service chains have further solidified Asia Pacific’s leadership in this market. The region’s mature regulatory environment, coupled with a robust network of suppliers and distributors, continues to support sustained market growth and innovation in halal-friendly offerings.

The Middle East & Africa is emerging as the fastest-growing region in the Halal-Friendly Menu Implementation market, estimated to register a CAGR of 9.8% from 2024 to 2033. This rapid growth is underpinned by significant investments in hospitality and tourism infrastructure, particularly in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where halal compliance is mandatory. Governments and private enterprises are actively promoting halal tourism and culinary experiences, attracting both local and international visitors seeking authentic halal options. The region’s focus on diversifying its economies beyond oil, coupled with strategic partnerships with global food and beverage brands, is accelerating the adoption of halal-friendly menu practices. The increasing influx of expatriates and tourists, alongside growing urbanization, further reinforces the region’s position as a dynamic growth hub for halal-certified food services.

In emerging economies across Latin America and parts of Europe, the adoption of halal-friendly menu implementation is gaining traction, though challenges remain. Limited awareness, fragmented certification processes, and varying degrees of regulatory oversight have slowed widespread adoption. However, rising Muslim populations, increased cross-cultural exchange, and the globalization of food trends are gradually stimulating demand in these markets. Local businesses are beginning to recognize the commercial potential of halal certification, especially in urban centers with diverse demographics. Policy harmonization, capacity-building initiatives, and targeted marketing campaigns are expected to bridge adoption gaps, enabling these regions to tap into the lucrative halal market while addressing consumer trust and standardization challenges.

Report Scope

A survey conducted across India in 2024 found that over 57 percent of the respondents agreed that the scope of reservations should be expanded to both Hindus and Muslims in the Scheduled caste (SC) category in government jobs. 19 percent believed that only Hindus should be given reservations in the category.

According to a survey conducted in 2020, 58 percent of Indian Americans who identified as Christian said that they attended religious services once or several times a week in comparison to 48 percent of Indian Americans who were Muslim and 21 percent of Indian Americans who were Hindu.