India has experienced rapid population growth in recent decades. The population reached over 1.21 billion according to the 2011 census, making India the second most populous country. Population growth is driven by a historical high birth rate and declining death rate. This rapid growth creates challenges for development by increasing demand for resources. Efforts are needed to reduce population growth through expanding education and employment, especially for women, as well as improving public health, access to family planning services, and social security for the elderly.