The findings emphasize India's unique demographic structure.

India Ranked 4th Most Religiously Diverse Among World’s Most Populous Nations

A recent global study by the Pew Research Centre highlights India as one of the most religiously diverse countries among the world’s most populous nations. The research, which examined faith composition in 201 countries and territories, ranks India fourth in diversity, following the United States, Nigeria, and Russia, while placing it ahead of Brazil and Pakistan.

Pakistan, with Muslims making up 97% of its population, is identified as the least diverse among the 10 most populous nations. Using a Religious Diversity Index (RDI) that evaluates how evenly major religions are represented, the study categorizes India as “moderately diverse,” a classification that covers the largest segment of the global population. The index includes seven religious groups: Christians, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Jews, followers of other religions, and people with no religious affiliation.

The findings emphasize India’s unique demographic structure. While Hindus form the majority, the country also hosts one of the largest Muslim populations worldwide, along with significant Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, and other communities. Nearly 95% of the world’s Hindus live in India, playing a major role in global diversity patterns.

Globally, Singapore ranks as the most religiously diverse country with an RDI score of 9.3, followed by Suriname. Most highly diverse nations are in the Asia-Pacific and sub-Saharan Africa. In contrast, Yemen, Afghanistan, and Somalia show minimal diversity, with Muslims exceeding 99% of their populations. 

The study notes that the Asia-Pacific region is the most diverse globally, while the Middle East–North Africa region is the least. Observers say India’s ranking reflects its long-standing identity as a multi-faith society shaping its social and political landscape.

Source: The Tribune