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Time of India
3 days ago
- General
- Time of India
World Population Day: 10 most populous countries in the world (and where does the US rank on the list)
Observed every year on July 11, World Population Day is a reminder of the dynamic shifts in global demographics. Established by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 1989 and institutionalized by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), this day aims to raise awareness about population-related issues such as family planning, gender equality, poverty, maternal health, and human rights. In 2025, as we observe this day – the global population has already surpassed 8.2 billion. Naturally, the question arises – which is the most populated country in the world? Let's take a look at the list of the 10 most populous countries. India India, one of the most significant countries in South Asia, has reached the mark of 1.46 billion in regard to its population – making it the world's most populous country. What's the secret? Despite a declining fertility rate below the replacement level, India's youthful demographic and rapid urbanization continue to drive its population growth. China With 1.41 Billion in population, China, once the most populous country, now ranks second – after India took the throne. In recent years, the nation is facing demographic challenges due to an aging population and low birth rates, which has led to a projected decline in population over the coming decades . United States The United States of America ranks third on the list of most populous countries. In 2025, the population of the US is projected at 347 million, with growth driven by immigration and a relatively higher fertility rate compared to other developed nations. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo Indonesia Indonesia, the Southeast Asian country with a vibrant and diverse culture and delicious cuisine – currently stands at 286 million. The population of the country continues to grow, influenced by its status as the largest economy in Southeast Asia and a significant youth demographic. Pakistan India's neighboring country, Pakistan's population has reached 255 million, with rapid urbanization and a young population contributing to its growth trajectory. Nigeria Nigeria, the land of Nollywood and diverse ethnic groups, has a population that currently stands at 238 million, making it the most populous country in Africa. The nation's growth is fueled by high fertility rates and a youthful population. Brazil Known as the soccer center of the world, Brazil's population is projected at 213 million, with urbanization and a declining fertility rate influencing its demographic trends. Bangladesh Enriched with history, heritage, and stunning landscapes, Bangladesh has a population of 176 million, with improvements in healthcare and family planning contributing to its growth. Russia Despite its significant global influence and an extremely rich historical lineage, Russia's population currently stands at 144 million, experiencing a decline due to low birth rates and high mortality rates. Mexico The land of beaches and cultural riches, Mexico, rounds out the top ten with a population of 132 million, influenced by fertility rates and migration patterns. The United States: A closer look In 2025, the United States is to remain the third most populous country globally, with a projected population of 347 million. This growth is primarily attributed to immigration, which continues to contribute significantly to the nation's demographic expansion . However, the US faces challenges such as an aging population and declining fertility rates, which may impact future growth. As per a CBO report, the US population is projected to start shrinking in 2033 unless immigration drives growth. Deaths are expected to surpass births, making immigration crucial for sustaining labor force participation. World Population Day: India ranks second on world map as the most populated country


Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
22 Jordanian SMEs advance green business transformation with support from UNDP project
AMMAN — The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Jordan, in collaboration with the Danish-Arab Partnership Programme (DAPP) and with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, celebrated the achievements of 22 Jordan-based small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in advancing green, sustainable growth across key economic sectors. The event marked the 'successful' completion of the second cohort of the Green Growth and Jobs Accelerator project, a flagship initiative designed to empower SMEs with the tools and knowledge to transition into sustainable business models and expand their reach within Jordan and beyond, according to a UNDP statement. The second phase provided over 12 comprehensive training sessions on green innovation and sustainability practices, alongside individually tailored advisory support for each SME, where 36 per cent of participating SMEs are led by women, and 27 per cent by youth, underscoring the project's 'strong' focus on inclusion and empowerment. "This initiative offers progressive SMEs in Jordan a pathway towards sustainable growth and market expansion," said Majida Alassaf, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP Jordan. "We are proud to see this cohort move closer to establishing a green economy that is inclusive, resilient, and forward-looking.' To further promote innovation and collaboration, the programme featured a pre-acceleration day, two pitch events, and a final networking session. These platforms enabled businesses to showcase their green solutions, foster partnerships, and explore investment opportunities. Ali Qattan, CEO of Olistic, one of the participating enterprises, shared: "The training gave us the push to evolve from a startup in Jordan into a potential global player."


News18
3 days ago
- General
- News18
World Population Day 2025: Theme, Slogans, And 10 Most Populous Countries
World Population Day raises awareness about family planning, gender equality, and reproductive health. World Population Day 2025: Observed on July 11 to spread awareness about population-related issues, World Population Day highlights important topics like family planning, gender equality, and reproductive health. The United Nations established this day in 1989 to mark the 'Day of Five Billion," when the global population reached five billion people. The day encourages people, governments, and organisations to discuss the impact of population growth on the environment, resources, and development. It promotes the need for action and understanding to manage population challenges. World Population Day also focuses on finding solutions that support sustainable growth and improve lives. It reminds us to work together for a healthier and more balanced future for all. World Population Day 2025: Theme This year's theme, 'Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world," highlights the importance of giving youth the rights, resources, and support they need to take control of their future. World Population Day 2025: History The idea of World Population Day began in the 1980s. On July 11, 1987, the world's population reached around five billion, drawing global attention to important issues like population growth, use of resources, and sustainable development. In 1989, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Governing Council decided that July 11 should be observed every year as World Population Day. Later, in December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly officially approved this through Resolution 45/216. The first celebration of World Population Day took place on July 11, 1990, and over 90 countries participated in the event. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about population issues that affect the world. It also aims to support reproductive health and rights, such as giving people access to family planning and proper education. Another goal is to promote gender equality and empower women to make their own health and family choices. World Population Day also focuses on the importance of sustainable development, where the needs of both people and the environment are balanced. It encourages countries to work together and take actions that ensure a better and fairer future for all. By observing this day, people around the world are reminded of the impact population growth has on society, and the importance of making smart, fair choices to build a more equal and healthy world. World Population Day 2025: Celebrations World Population Day is marked by different activities and programs designed to spread awareness about population-related issues. Public Awareness Campaigns: Governments, NGOs, and global organisations run campaigns to inform people about topics like family planning, reproductive health, and population growth. These efforts help people understand why these issues matter. Seminars and Public Lectures: Educational events are held at local, national, and international levels. Experts speak about the causes and effects of population growth and offer ideas for solutions. Art and Cultural Programs: Creative events like art shows, music, and drama performances are organised to share important messages engagingly and emotionally. Health Camps and Services: In many areas, especially where healthcare is limited, health camps are held. These provide services like family planning advice, checkups for mothers, and guidance on reproductive health. Youth Involvement: Special focus is given to young people. Events and programs help them learn about their rights, how to make informed decisions, and understand the importance of taking care of their health and future. World Population Day 2025: Slogans Control overpopulation to avoid starvation. Birth control is the key to population control. Focus on population control to fight poverty and illiteracy. Plan your family, protect the planet. Take a pledge to control the population. Start family planning for a happier future. Keep your family small for a big, happy life. Celebrate World Population Day to help control population growth. Here are the top 10 most populous countries, based on the latest figures from World Population Review. India: India holds the top spot as the world's most populous country, with a projected population of over 1.46 billion in 2025. The population is growing at an annual rate of about 0.89 per cent. India has a young and diverse population, with a median age of around 28.8 years. Over 37 per cent of its people now live in cities and urban areas. China: It is the second most populous country with about 1.42 billion people in 2025. Its population is declining by 0.23 per cent, with a median age of 40.1 years. Around 67.5 per cent live in urban areas, and the country faces issues like an ageing population and low birth rates. United States: In 2025, the U.S. has about 347 million people, growing at 0.54 per cent annually. Growth is fuelled by both migration and births. The median age is 38.5 years, and over 82 per cent of the population lives in urban areas. Indonesia: By the end of 2025, Indonesia's population is expected to reach around 286 million, growing at 0.79 per cent annually. With a median age of 30.4 years, about 60 per cent live in urban areas. High fertility rates continue to drive its strong population growth. Pakistan: Pakistan's population is around 255 million in 2025, growing quickly at 1.57 per cent per year. With a median age of 20.6 years, it has a very young population. About 34.4 per cent live in cities, and the country faces issues like overpopulation, poverty, and strained infrastructure. Nigeria: By the end of 2025, Nigeria is expected to reach a population of 238 million, making it one of the fastest-growing countries globally. With a growth rate of 2.08 per cent and a median age of just 18.1 years, it has a very young population. Over half live in urban areas, and high birth rates fuel this rapid rise. Brazil: It is projected to have 213 million people by the end of 2025, with a low growth rate of 0.38 per cent. It is South America's largest country by area and has a median age of 34.8 years. With 91.4 per cent of its population in cities, Brazil is experiencing slower growth and an ageing population. Bangladesh: In 2025, Bangladesh is expected to have a population of about 176 million, growing at 1.22 per cent annually. With a small land area, it has a very high population density of 1,350 people per km². The median age is 26 years, and over 42 per cent of the population lives in urban areas. Russia: Russia's population in 2025 is around 144 million, declining at 0.57 per cent. With a median age of 40.3 years, it has an ageing population, and 75 per cent live in cities. Ethiopia: Ethiopia will have about 135 million people in 2025, with a high growth rate of 2.58 per cent. It has a young population (median age 19.1), and only 22.5 per cent live in urban areas. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : lifestyle World Population Day view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 11, 2025, 07:20 IST News lifestyle World Population Day 2025: Theme, Slogans, And 10 Most Populous Countries Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.


Indian Express
3 days ago
- General
- Indian Express
World Population Day 2025: Date, theme, history, significance—all you need to know
World Population Day 2025 Date and Theme: It took hundreds of thousands of years for the world population to reach one billion; it increased sevenfold in just another 200 years or so. While the global population is expected to continue increasing steadily, with projections indicating it may reach around 9.7 billion by 2050, it highlights concerns about 'population collapse' driven by declining fertility rates. As a result, World Population Day is a global observance marked annually to raise awareness about global population challenges and their implications for society. Established by the United Nations in 1989, the idea of World Population Day arose from the recognition of the importance of population-related issues and the UNDP designated this day as an annual event to commemorate the world's population reaching 5 billion people on July 11, 1987. The day highlights the urgent need to address the consequences and implications of population growth, prompting the international community to take action. This year's celebration will take place on Friday, July 11, 2025, with the theme 'Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world'. The theme focuses on the problem of the largest-ever generation of young people, highlighting the importance of providing young adults with the rights, resources, and opportunities they need to determine their destiny. This is a significant day that serves as a reminder to address the pressing issues surrounding global population growth, raise awareness, and foster discussion about finding solutions. 📅 #WorldPopulationDay 2025 | July 11 Let's build a future where every individual can choose freely, live with dignity and thrive equally. This year's theme calls for empowering youth to shape their futures through access to education, healthcare and informed choices. 🔹… — CSIR-NIScPR (@CSIR_NIScPR) July 11, 2025

RNZ News
3 days ago
- Business
- RNZ News
Dalton Tagelagi: Niue on course to achieve its renewable energy goals
By 'Alakihihifo Vailala , PMN Niue's Prime Minister Dalton Tagelagi Photo: RNZ Pacific / Lydia Lewis Niue's Prime Minister Dalton Tagelagi says the island nation will achieve its "ambitious target" of 80 percent renewable energy goal by the end of 2025, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to its Paris Agreement commitments. Speaking on PMN Niue , Tagelagi says reaching the target will reap many benefits for the nation, which sits 68 metres above sea level at its highest point. "We will be reaching that target with 80 percent renewable energy, and that means it will save us a lot in fossil fuel," Tagelagi says. "Fossil fuel is one of the main contributors to climate change, and that means that will factor in as part of our national determined contribution towards the Paris Agreement." Niue is currently hosting the Niue National Energy Summit 2025 in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The Summit brings together government leaders, MPs, village councils, private sector players, development partners and community stakeholders to co-develop a shared vision for Niue's energy future and set priorities for the next Energy Roadmap through to 2035. This is the second Energy Summit, following the 2015 summit, which set the target of achieving 80 per cent renewable energy by 2025. Last year, during a visit to Niue, Aotearoa, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced an investment of $20.5 million in a new, large-scale project aimed at helping the island nation achieve its renewable energy target. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Niue Prime Minister Tagelagi in Niue last year. Photo: RNZ/Giles Dexter The project also ensures better energy security during destructive weather events. Tagelagi says that greater funding commitments for Small Island Developing States are needed, a sentiment echoed by many leaders during last year's Conference of the Parties in Azerbaijan. "Everyone was calling for at least US$39 billion (NZ$65b) annually to support adaptation across all small island development states," Tagelagi says. Reflecting on last month's United Nations Ocean Conference, Tagelagi says Niue is gaining international traction due to homegrown initiatives, such as when the nation declared its entire Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) a Multiple-Use Marine Park under the Nukutulea Framework in 2022. Niue is one of the few countries worldwide with 100 percent of its ocean space legally managed and marks the second largest no-take Marine Protected Area by EEZ percentage globally. "The world's keeping an eye on it because of how it was structured or how the initiative and thing is," Tagelagi says. "It does come with higher responsibilities with people outside wanting to know more about what we're doing. "It is one thing to put ourselves out there. The other challenge would - PMN