Top 10 Most Populated States in India (with Census & 2024 Estimates)
The most populated states in India are a common question in school exams, competitive tests, and quizzes. Understanding which states have the largest populations helps you answer questions in general studies, geography, and current affairs sections of exams like UPSC, SSC, and state boards. It's also useful knowledge for daily general awareness.
| Rank | State | Population (2011 Census) |
Estimated Population (2021) |
Projected Population (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Uttar Pradesh | 199,812,341 | ~231,000,000 | ~240,000,000 |
| 2 | Maharashtra | 112,374,333 | ~126,000,000 | ~129,000,000 |
| 3 | Bihar | 104,099,452 | ~124,000,000 | ~127,000,000 |
| 4 | West Bengal | 91,276,115 | ~101,000,000 | ~104,000,000 |
| 5 | Madhya Pradesh | 72,626,809 | ~85,000,000 | ~87,000,000 |
| 6 | Tamil Nadu | 72,147,030 | ~79,000,000 | ~81,000,000 |
| 7 | Rajasthan | 68,548,437 | ~81,000,000 | ~83,000,000 |
| 8 | Karnataka | 61,095,297 | ~69,000,000 | ~71,000,000 |
| 9 | Gujarat | 60,439,692 | ~68,000,000 | ~70,000,000 |
| 10 | Andhra Pradesh | 49,386,799 | ~54,000,000 | ~56,000,000 |
Most Populated States in India – Key Facts
The most populated states in India are ranked by the total number of people living in each state. Uttar Pradesh has the highest population, followed by Maharashtra and Bihar. This ranking is based on official Census 2011 data, as well as estimates and projections for 2021 and 2025.
Statewise Population Distribution – Why It Matters
Knowing population by state in India is important for understanding voting patterns, resource allocation, and urbanisation. In exams, this helps students answer map questions, match-the-following, and analysis-based queries. It also gives insight into India's demographic trends.
Population Trends in Indian States (2011–2025)
India’s population has grown quickly over the past decade. Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Bihar have each added millions of residents since the last census. West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh remain in the top five. Such trends are essential for Social Science and current affairs sections in various exams.
Map of Most Populated States in India
A map showing the most populated states highlights where most people live in India. Most high-population states are in northern and eastern India. Large states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal form a dense population belt, while states in the northeast have much smaller populations. You can explore regional maps in detail at Physical Features of the India Map.
Reasons Behind High State Populations
- High birth rates and fertility in certain regions
- Historic patterns of rural settlement
- Economic opportunities drawing migrants
- Larger land areas supporting more people
- Lower levels of urbanisation in some states
Population vs Density vs Area: Explained
| Term | What It Means | Top Example |
|---|---|---|
| Most Populated State | State with the highest total number of people | Uttar Pradesh |
| Most Densely Populated State | State with the most people per square kilometre | Bihar |
| Largest State by Area | State with the most land area (not necessarily highest population) | Rajasthan |
Use of Population Statistics for Exams and General Knowledge
State population data helps in answering match-the-following and list-based questions in board exams and competitive tests. It’s also useful for debates, essays, and quiz competitions. For holistic understanding, see more at Population of India or explore state capitals via Size and Location of India.
How to Remember the Most Populated States in India
- Use short mnemonics for the top five: UP, MH, BH, WB, MP
- Make map sketches during revision
- Review updated data regularly from official sources
- Follow population-related news for current trends (especially near census release years)
Important Related Resources
- Population of India
- Physical Features of the India Map
- Size and Location of India
- Indian State Chief Ministers and Governors
- Diverse Democracy
- India After Independence
- Rural Livelihoods in India
- Urban Livelihoods in India
- Types of Resources
- Our Country India
Knowing the most populated states in India—like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Bihar—helps you in exams, general knowledge, and understanding India's demographics. Population rankings change over time, so always check the latest census or estimates. At Vedantu, we make complex Social Science concepts easy for students to learn and remember.
FAQs on Most Populated States in India: State-Wise Ranking & Data
1. What are the 10 most populated states in India?
As of the 2011 census and subsequent projections, India's top 10 most populated states consistently include major players like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh. However, precise rankings may shift slightly depending on the year's data used (2011 Census, 2021 Census, or projected 2025 figures).
2. Which state ranks first in population in India?
Uttar Pradesh consistently holds the top spot as the most populated state in India, according to both the 2011 Census and more recent estimates. Its massive population significantly impacts resource allocation and governance.
3. What is the population of Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, or Bihar?
The populations of these states vary considerably year-on-year. Consult the latest Indian Census data for precise figures on Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Bihar. These states consistently rank among India's most populous.
4. Which are the five most densely populated states in India?
While population density differs from total population, India's most densely populated states tend to be smaller but with high population concentrations. This contrasts with the most populated states which are generally larger in area. Specific rankings require referencing recent census data.
5. Which states have the lowest population in India?
Several smaller states and union territories in India have relatively low populations compared to the populous giants. Refer to the official Indian census for the most up-to-date ranking of states with the lowest population numbers. These states often face different challenges in development due to their lower population size.
6. How does population ranking change between the 2011 census and 2021 projections?
While the top 10 most populated states in India remain largely consistent between the 2011 census and 2021 estimates, minor shifts in rankings occur due to varying growth rates across different states. Population projections for 2025 further refine these trends, providing insights into ongoing demographic changes.
7. Why do some Indian states have much higher populations than others?
Variations in population across Indian states are due to a complex interplay of factors. These include historical patterns of migration, economic opportunities, fertility rates, urbanization, and geographical factors influencing settlement patterns. Understanding these complex interactions requires examining the state's historical context and current socioeconomic conditions.
8. What impact does a high state population have on resources, jobs, and education?
High state populations exert considerable pressure on resources, leading to challenges in providing adequate jobs, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. This necessitates strategic planning and resource management to ensure equitable distribution and sustainable development.
9. How do migration and urbanization affect state populations?
Internal migration within India significantly influences state population dynamics. People move from rural to urban areas (urbanization) seeking better opportunities, leading to population growth in cities and decline in some rural areas. This impacts infrastructure needs and resource allocation across states.
10. In what ways does state population density differ from total population?
Population density (people per square kilometer) differs from total population. A state can have a high total population but low density if it's geographically large (e.g., Rajasthan). Conversely, a smaller state might have high density despite a lower total population (e.g., Kerala). Understanding both metrics is crucial for complete demographic analysis.
11. How is state population data collected and updated across census years?
State population data is primarily collected through the decennial Census of India, a massive undertaking involving house-to-house surveys. This data informs government policies and planning. Between census years, estimates and projections are made using various statistical methodologies to track population changes.
12. Why is it important for students to know state-wise population for exams?
Understanding state-wise population is vital for students preparing for exams in geography, social science, and related fields. This knowledge provides context for various social and economic issues covered in the syllabus, demonstrating an understanding of spatial patterns and societal dynamics across India. Competitive exams frequently test this knowledge.
