As of 2021 data, Pakistan has a larger Muslim population than India, although India is home to one of the world's largest Muslim communities.
Current Muslim Population Figures
Based on recent demographic data, the number of Muslims in both countries is substantial, making them significant hubs for the global Muslim population. Here's a direct comparison:
| Country | Muslim Population (2021) |
|---|---|
| Pakistan | 240,760,000 |
| India | 200,000,000 |
This indicates that Pakistan has approximately 40.76 million more Muslims than India according to these figures.
Percentage of Muslim Population
Beyond the absolute numbers, understanding the percentage of Muslims within each country's total population provides crucial context:
- Pakistan: Muslims constitute an overwhelming majority, accounting for approximately 96.46% of the total population. This makes Pakistan one of the most populous Muslim-majority nations globally.
- India: While India's total Muslim population is very large, it represents about 14.6% of the country's diverse population. This signifies that Muslims are a significant minority group within India.
Understanding the Context
The demographic landscape of both India and Pakistan offers unique insights into their religious diversity and national identity.
India's Muslim Community
Despite being a minority, India's 200 million Muslims make it home to one of the largest Muslim populations in the world. This massive community underscores India's status as a profoundly diverse and secular nation, where numerous religious groups coexist and contribute to the national fabric. The presence of such a large Muslim population within a predominantly Hindu country highlights a unique aspect of global religious demographics.
Pakistan's Muslim Majority
With 240.76 million Muslims comprising over 96% of its populace, Pakistan is defined by its strong Muslim identity. The nation was founded on the principle of providing a homeland for Muslims in South Asia, and its demographics reflect this foundational ethos, making it a pivotal country in the Muslim world.
Global Significance
Both India and Pakistan play crucial roles in the global Muslim demographic landscape. Together, they host a substantial portion of the world's Muslim population, influencing cultural, political, and economic dynamics in South Asia and beyond. For further global demographic insights, resources such as World Population Review provide detailed statistics on Muslim populations worldwide.
