India is the most populous country in the world, comprising 28 states and 8 union territories. Each state has a distinct demographic profile, with variations in population size, density, growth rate, literacy rate, and urban-rural distribution. Understanding the state-wise population is crucial for planning infrastructure, allocating resources, conducting elections, and implementing development schemes.

The population data is primarily based on the latest estimates from the Government of India, and the most comprehensive official data comes from the Census, which is conducted every 10 years (last in 2011, next expected after 2024).