As per the 'State of World Population Report, 2023' by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), India has now become the most populous country in the world. India has surpassed China, with a population of 1.4286 billion, compared to China's 1.4257 billion. As per the State of World Population report, the majority (68%) of India's population falls between the ages of 15 to 64, and 26% of the population falls within the age bracket of 10 to 24 years. Last year's report from the UN agency estimated India's population to be 1.4066 billion. However, India's last official census was conducted in 2011. The latest report revealed that India has surpassed China to become the most populous country in the world, with China's population decreasing from 1.4485 billion in 2021 to 1.4257 billion in 2022. Additionally, the report stated that the average life expectancy for men in India is 71 years, while for women, it is 74 years.

The report also notes that Delhi is the most populated city in India, followed by Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. The report further highlights India's demographic diversity among states and the opportunities it provides to reap the benefits of demographic dividends.

In 2022, China saw a decline in population of 850,000 people, which is the first time since 1961. Despite the Chinese government's decision to abolish the one-child policy and permit up to three children, the birth rate did not increase as anticipated due to the growing expenses of living, childcare, and education. According to Jefferys, the ideal population number of both countries is debatable, but the focus should be on how to support their respective populations. The UNFPA report suggests that policymakers and the media must reject exaggerated accounts of population growth or decline. Rather than emphasizing the rate of population growth, leaders should concentrate on whether women, in particular, have the freedom to make their own reproductive decisions. Natalia Kanem, the UNFPA's executive director, added that women's reproductive choices should not be tied to population objectives.