India's population expected to reach 152.2 crore by 2036

India’s population is expected to reach 152.2 crore by 2036, as per data from the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The government data suggests that the sex ration will improve from 943 in 2011 to 952 in 2036. Besides, the female percentage is also expected to improve at 48.8 per cent, as compared to 48.5 per cent in 2011.

The the proportion of individuals under 15 years is projected to decrease from 2011 to 2036, while the proportion of the population aged 60 years and above is anticipated to substantially increase, government data showed.

The decline in proportion of those below 15 years of age would likely be due to declining fertility.

The data was mentioned in the 25th edition of the government’s publication "Women and Men in India 2023." The report offers a detailed overview of the status of women and men in the country. The data is broken down by gender, urban-rural divides, and regions, providing a clear picture of disparities between different groups.

Here's a look at the key projections and findings of the publication:

. By 2036, population of India is expected to reach 152.2



crore, with a slightly improved female percentage of 48.8 per cent as compared to 48.5 per cent in 2011.

. The sex ratio is expected to improve from 943 in 2011 to 952 by 2036

. Other important insights include a reduction in fertility rates among younger women. The report mentioned that from 2016 to 2020, Age Specific Fertility Rate in the age group of 20-24 and 25-29 has reduced from 135.4 and 166.0 to 113.6 and 139.6 respectively.

. The ASFR for the age 35-39 for the above period has increased from 32.7 to 35.6 which shows that after settling in life, women are thinking of expansion of family, the report says.

. The data suggests a decline in the Infant Mortality Rate for both male and female over the years. The Under 5 Mortality Rate data shows that it has decreased from 43 in 2015 to 32 in 2020.

. The report shows an increase in the Labour Force Participation Rate for both men and women. As per the Periodic Labour Force Survey, male LFPR has gone from 75.8 to 78.5 during 2017-18 to 2022-23 and female LFPR has gone from 23.3 to 37 during the same period.

The report highlights progress towards gender equality while identifying areas where challenges remain.